With the sweltering days of July behind us, San Francisco’s weather is slated to remain above normal temperatures through early August, bringing a moderate HeatRisk across the inland valleys and elevated terrain. The National Weather Service Forecast Office in San Francisco reports that the average temperature in July was "the hottest on record across much of the Bay Area". Despite a step down from recent extreme heat waves, areas shaded in the very light green face around a "5% chance for isolated lightning strikes" which, in turn, come with an increased threat for fires sparked by these potential dry lightning events. Breezes that accompany such outflows could exacerbate the situation by spreading any new or existing fires.

As monsoonal moisture exits today, clearer skies are anticipated, though remnants of mid and high-level clouds may linger through the morning, especially in areas like the North Bay and the Central Coast. According to the National Weather Service, the North Bay will experience temperatures on par with yesterday due to persistent high clouds. At the same time, other inland regions can expect a minor hike in the heat, somewhere between 2-4 degrees higher than the previous day’s heat, according to the Area Forecast Discussion.

Heading into the week, the forecast doesn't promise much drama. The temperatures will increase as the monsoonal influence recedes completely and the ridge intensifies in strength early in the week. "Temperatures increase further and peak Tuesday with high temps about 8-14 degrees above normal depending on how far inland you are", according to the NWS. Later in the week, a predicted eastward shift of the ridge and ensuing trough along the West Coast is expected to usher in cooler temperatures, bringing us closer to the norm for this time of the year as we near the weekend.

In maritime news, the Marine forecast predicts an unwavering presence of moderately to brisk northwesterly breezes, with gusts picking up strength, particularly rough in the outer waters by the incoming Tuesday. As Tropical Storm Carlotta and two other systems stir in the Eastern Pacific, authorities are keeping a close eye on the potential of significant southerly swell, albeit with no immediate threat forecasted for our shores. As always, seafarers are advised caution, especially under the imposed Small Craft Advisory effective until Sunday morning for certain areas across the coast, NWS reports.