November 24, 2021 – Dry weather prevails into next week. Breezy north winds decrease later today.
Discussion
Breezy northerly winds have spread across much of interior NorCal overnight as north to east surface gradients tightened. Northerly gusts of 15-25 mph have been common over most of the Sacramento Valley and surrounding terrain, while northeasterly gusts of 25-35 mph are present over the northern Sierra.
Skies are clear across the region early this morning except for a thin strip of fog/stratus along the eastern edge of the valley to the east of Modesto where winds remain generally light.
Gradients forecast to relax and winds are expected to decrease by late today. Thursday morning some lingering breezy conditions are possible over the Sierra, in particular wind prone ridges and drainage gaps.
Ensemble guidance is in very good agreement high pressure is expected to continue to build into the weekend over northern California. Dry conditions are expected to prevail through the Thanksgiving holiday.
However, you may notice some high clouds passing through the region Thursday into Friday as a shortwave is expected to pass to our north. Late night and morning fog may begin to return by the weekend.
Extended Discussion (Sunday through Wednesday)
Ensembles in good agreement with ridge continuing over NorCal into early next week. This will bring dry weather, light winds and near to slightly above normal temperatures Sunday and Monday.
NBM hints at flattening of ridge late Tuesday and Wednesday, which could bring a few light showers to areas north of Interstate 80. High temperatures from the low to upper 60’s are expected.