March 29, 2018 – Dry and warm this week with locally breezy north winds at times.
Discussion
High pressure remains in control through the end of the work week with above normal temperatures and plenty of sunshine. Afternoon temperatures today and Friday will be similar to yesterday’s readings with mid 70s to lower 80s in the valley, and 50s to 60s over the mountains. Locally breezy north winds will continue today before slackening up a bit Friday. Upper ridge begins to flatten Saturday as shortwave attempts to break through the ridge. Limited moisture so not expecting anything in the way of precipitation but it will serve to slightly cool temperatures for Saturday and Sunday.
Extended discussion (Monday through Thursday)
Model forecasts depict the upper level flow pattern for the start of next week keeping a disturbance to the north of the forecast area with a building ridge of high pressure to the west. Dry conditions are expected as a result for Monday. The ridge shifts east as a small disturbance moves toward northern California for the end of Tuesday into Wednesday. Light mountain rain is expected at the moment as snow levels remain high with plenty of warm air in place. Afternoon high temperatures through the extended forecast continue to trend above normal for early April.
Confidence is still low at this point, but latest model runs show evidence of a return to wet weather. Widespread rain and mountain snow are possible towards the end of next week and into next weekend.