Honestly, if you've ever lived in Los Angeles, you know the "Valley" is basically its own planet when it comes to the atmosphere. While Santa Monica is shivering in a damp marine layer, someone in Northridge is probably looking for their sunglasses. This morning, Sunday, January 18, 2026, the weather forecast san fernando valley ca is showing us exactly why this place is so unpredictable.
Right now, it’s about 55°F outside. It’s cloudy, and there’s a light northwest wind at 7 mph. It feels like a typical January morning—a bit crisp, definitely "light jacket" territory. But don't let that morning gloom fool you. By this afternoon, we’re looking at a high of 77°F. That’s a 22-degree jump.
That’s the Valley for you. It’s a giant bowl that traps heat, and today is going to be one of those "layers are mandatory" kind of days.
What’s Actually Happening with the Weather Forecast San Fernando Valley CA
The humidity is sitting at 39%, which is pretty dry even for us. If you’re heading out to Lake Balboa or planning a hike up in the Santa Susana Mountains, the UV index is low (around 2), but that 77-degree peak is going to feel warm under the partly sunny skies.
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There’s a tiny 10% chance of rain during the day, which basically means you might see a stray drop on your windshield, but don’t count on it to wash your car. Tonight, things clear up significantly. The temperature will drop back down to 52°F, and that chance of rain disappears almost entirely.
The Weird Science of the SFV Microclimate
Why is it so much warmer here than over the hill? Basically, the Santa Monica Mountains act like a giant wall. They block that cool, moist air from the Pacific Ocean. While the Westside gets that "natural air conditioning," the San Fernando Valley just bakes.
In the summer, this is a nightmare. In January? It’s actually kinda nice.
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- Current Temp: 55°F
- Today’s High: 77°F
- Tonight’s Low: 52°F
- Wind: Northwest at 7 mph
People often get the weather forecast san fernando valley ca wrong because they look at "Los Angeles" as a whole. But DTLA or Hollywood weather won't tell you if you need shorts in Woodland Hills. You've gotta look at the specific valley stats.
Wildfires and Wind: The January Shift
We’re lucky today. The wind is a gentle 7 mph from the northwest. But usually, January in the Valley means Santa Ana winds. Those are the hot, dry winds that blow in from the desert, screaming through the canyons and turning the brush into a tinderbox.
Even though we’re in the middle of winter, fire risk is a real thing here. According to CAL FIRE and local NWS reports, Southern California often sees "above-normal" fire potential through the early months of the year if we haven't had a major soaking rain. Luckily, the current humidity is manageable, but that northwest breeze is a reminder of how quickly things can shift.
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What to Pack for a Day in the Valley
If you’re visiting or just commuting in from the basin, here’s the reality:
You’ll start the day in a hoodie. By 2:00 PM, you’ll be wishing you wore a T-shirt. By 6:00 PM, when the sun dips behind the hills, you’ll want that hoodie back.
It’s also worth noting that the "Urban Heat Island" effect is massive here. Areas with more asphalt, like Van Nuys or Pacoima, often feel a few degrees hotter than the leafier neighborhoods like Encino or Sherwood Forest. It's not just your imagination; the ground is literally radiating heat back at you.
Actionable Steps for Today
Since the weather forecast san fernando valley ca is calling for a warm, dry afternoon followed by a clear, chilly night, here is how to handle it:
- Hydrate early: 31% humidity in the afternoon is dry enough to give you a headache if you aren't drinking water.
- Plan outdoor exercise for the morning: Even though 77°F isn't "hot" by July standards, the direct sun in the valley can be intense.
- Check your tires: Temperature swings from 55°F to 77°F can actually mess with your tire pressure sensors. Don't freak out if the light pops on.
- Enjoy the evening: Tonight will be clear and 52°F. It’s perfect "patio heater" weather if you’re grabbing dinner in Ventura Blvd.
The San Fernando Valley is a place of extremes. One minute you're shivering, the next you're searching for shade. Just keep an eye on those northwest winds and enjoy the 77-degree peak while the rest of the country is digging out of the snow.