Sacramento started the day clear and on the cool side, with temperatures near 54°F at Sacramento Executive Airport (KSAC). By this afternoon, steady sunshine is expected to bump readings into the mid 80s. Skies should stay mostly sunny while south-southwest breezes develop later in the day. If you have outdoor plans, expect a warm, gusty finish to the weekend and pack both sunscreen and a light layer for the early hours.
Afternoon Winds Pick Up
South-southwest winds are forecast to strengthen through the afternoon, generally around 2 to 12 mph with gusts up to about 20 mph in more exposed spots. The official briefing calls for a high near 84°F for Sunday, May 24, and highlights gusty SSW winds across the valley this afternoon, according to the NWS Sacramento briefing. Look for the strongest gusts during the late-afternoon and early-evening commute, and secure lightweight outdoor items before you head out so they do not end up in the neighbor's yard.
Memorial Day And Fire Weather Concerns
Memorial Day, Monday, May 25, is expected to stay sunny with highs near 81°F and SSW winds of 6 to 14 mph, with gusts up to roughly 23 mph. Forecast discussion text notes that gusts could climb higher, with 25 to 35 mph possible Monday and 35 to 45 mph possible Tuesday through Wednesday, and that low daytime humidity will bring elevated fire-weather conditions across parts of the valley, according to the NWS forecast discussion. That means avoiding open flames, keeping grills and any fire sources closely supervised, and locking down canopies and loose furniture before the gustier periods arrive.
What To Know For Plans
Plan on cool starts and warm afternoons, so layer up for morning events and peel back as temperatures climb. Midmorning slots are likely your best bet for parades and small gatherings when winds tend to be lighter. If you are putting up tents or decorations, use stakes, weights, or tie-downs, since strong gusts can easily topple anything unsecured. Check the latest NWS forecast before traveling or hosting larger outdoor events and be ready to adjust plans if the gusty, dry pattern hangs on.
