The National Weather Service in Sacramento forecasts persistent breezy conditions throughout the week, with gusts expected to intensify again over the weekend. These winds will occur alongside dry conditions and temperatures above the seasonal average. "Breezy north to east winds this week accompanied by dry weather and above-normal temperatures," detailed the National Weather Service. This follows local gusty conditions observed in the mountains, foothills, and Delta region as earlier reported wind gusts hit 35 to 45 mph in these areas.
The forecast for the weekend indicates a return of gusty north to east winds as a weak trough moves into the Great Basin, tightening the surface gradient and increasing the potential for stronger winds. The National Weather Service predicts a 40 to 60 percent chance of gusts exceeding 40 mph in the Valley and Delta, and a 60 to 80 percent chance for similar gusts in the Sierra peaks. While these winds are expected to be strong, they are not expected to reach the intensity of the previous wind event. However, due to uncertainties regarding the wind path and gradient, it is recommended to stay informed.
An upper ridge is forecast to expand across the West Coast through the middle of next week, bringing dry weather conditions and periods of north to east winds, which may at times strengthen. Daytime high temperatures are expected to remain above seasonal averages, with the Central Valley ranging from the upper 50s to lower 60s, and the foothills and mountains seeing temperatures between the 40s and 50s.
The aviation outlook for the next 24 hours indicates mostly VFR (Visual Flight Rules) conditions over the interior of Northern California. However, local MVFR/IFR (Marginal Visual Flight Rules/Instrument Flight Rules) conditions due to fog are possible in the South Sacramento and North San Joaquin Valleys after 06z Thursday. On the ground, surface winds are expected to remain generally light, with localized northeast winds potentially reaching 15-25 knots, and gusts up to 35 knots in the northern and eastern foothills and mountains, according to the National Weather Service.
