August 30, 2018 – Relatively cool and dry weather continues today. Warmer weather returns Friday and continues through the Labor Day weekend. Areas of smoke and haze will continue, especially near wildfires.

Discussion

Clear skies cover interior NorCal except for a few high clouds moving across the southern edge of the forecast area. The marine layer remains deep (greater that 3k feet) and onshore gradients are stronger compared to 24 hours ago, so morning stratus potential for the Sacramento region is higher than yesterday.

Current temperatures range from the mid 30s in the coldest mountain valleys to the mid 50s to mid 60s across the Central Valley. Weak upper trough continues today which will keep temperatures cooler than average.

High pressure builds in the eastern Pacific starting Friday, and temperatures will rebound as a result to near to slightly above average for the Labor Day weekend.

Extended Discussion (Monday through Thursday)

Dry conditions are expected through the extended period under high pressure ridging over the southwest U.S. A series of shortwave weather systems are forecast to move through the Pacific northwest Monday through Thursday keeping the upper ridge suppressed and a generally zonal pattern over the state. This should keep daytime temperatures right around normal for this time of year with only minor fluctuations as these systems move through.