Southern California heating up for Valentine's Day

With a little help from Mother Nature, it’s going to be a warm, cozy weekend for Southern Californians starting on Valentine’s Day.

The National Weather Service forecasts temperatures rising to the low to mid-70s Thursday and peak in the 80s Friday as Santa Ana winds blow across Los Angeles.

Forecasters expect 10 mph winds through the region, with areas between Malibu and the Hollywood Hills getting stronger gusts up to 35 mph, the weather service predicted.

Wind advisories will go into effect Thursday at 6 p.m. in the mountains and 10 p.m. along the coast and will last through Saturday.

Temperatures will drop to the 40s or 50s overnight, said weather service meteorologist Curt Kaplan.

“Through Saturday it’s going to be nice and warm,” Kaplan said.

Then, a trough of cold air from Alaska is supposed to roll through the region by the end of the weekend, bringing in cold air and rain.

Forecasters predict a 40% chance of rain Tuesday night and 30% chance of rain on Wednesday.

ALSO:

Dorner manhunt: A sigh of relief and anguish in Big Bear

Owner of stolen truck says Dorner didn't want to hurt him

Dorner case: Slain deputy's wife speaks of losing 'perfect' mate

-- Joseph Serna

Photo: Palms sway and a flag flutters in gusty winds in Fontana. Credit: Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times