February 25, 2020 – Dry weather with above average temperatures and locally breezy northerly winds at times this week.
Discussion
Other than a few high clouds passing overhead, skies are clear across the region early this morning. The MFR-SAC surface pressure gradient is up to 10 mbs and the RNO-SAC gradient is nearly 6 mbs. Northerly wind gusts in the teens to mid 20s mph continue in the Sacramento Valley, especially along the west side. Local gusts in the mid 30s to mid 40s mph are present in the foothills and west slopes of the northern Sierra Nevada. Current temperatures are considerably milder across most of the area compared to 24 hours ago and range from the lower to mid 20s in the mountain valleys to the mid 40s to mid 50s (mid 60s locally along the western edge of the valley) across the Central Valley.
High pressure will continue dry and mild weather this week. Winds will subside somewhat later today in the valley, and by Wednesday morning in the Sierra, as gradients relax. Highs will be running 10-20 degrees above average and some record highs will be possible throughout the week.
Extended Discussion (Saturday through Tuesday)
Upper troughing digs along the West Coast through the weekend bringing cooler temperatures and locally breezy wind. Models differ some depth and progression of wave but suggest some potential for light precip over the Shasta county mountains Saturday night and across mainly the eastern foothills and mountains Sunday. Overall QPF looks to be light attm. Precip chances diminish Sunday night into Monday as the trough digs into the Desert SW and upstream ridging builds over NorCal. Breezy north to east wind expected Monday, persisting locally in the foothills and mountains Tuesday.