December 17, 2016 – Freezing temperatures in the Valley this weekend with dry conditions. Mainly dry next week except for a chance of light showers during mid week.
Discussion
Mainly clear skies the next couple of days with cold nights. There is a very weak wave dropping down from the north that will increase the surface pressure over Oregon and into the Great Basin tonight. Northerly winds over the north end of the valley and parts of the west side of the valley may help to keep temperatures closer to the freezing mark so only wind sheltered areas would be susceptible to a hard freeze.
Drier air and light winds Sunday night will lead to more widespread freezing temperatures by Monday morning throughout the valley.
An approaching weak weather system late Monday and Monday night will start to moderate the cold temperatures over the northern areas. One more night of freezing temperatures look possible from around Sacramento southward.
Extended discussion (Wednesday through Saturday)
Short wave trough moves through Tuesday bringing a slight chance of showers over the northern mountains. Ridging brings dry weather Wednesday with gradually warming temperatures. A somewhat stronger Pacific frontal system progged to move Thursday into Friday. Models continue to show differences with timing and strength of system. Most of the precipitation is expected to be over the mountains.