July 9, 2019 – Gradual warming this week with temperatures returning to slightly above average by the end of the week. Breezy wind at times through the Delta and over the Sierra crest.

Discussion

Satellite imagery shows plenty of high clouds spreading across the region early this morning associated with the weather system off the coast of the PacNW. Onshore flow continues, but not as strong as 24 hours ago. Current temperatures are pretty similar to the same time early Monday and generally range from the mid 30s to lower 40s in the colder mountain valleys to the mid 50s to lower 60s across portions of the Central Valley influenced by the Delta Breeze, and in the upper 60s to lower 70s elsewhere across the Central Valley.

Far northern California will catch the tail end of the weather system moving into the PacNW today. While there`s lots of moisture (TPW over an inch and a half) offshore, forcing is expected to be very limited along the front as it weakens moving onshore. A few sprinkles or light showers will be possible across far northern Shasta County this afternoon, but areas to the south are expected to remain dry with less cloud cover expected as you head south.

Highs today will be similar to Monday’s across the northern portion of the forecast area where thicker cloud cover will be present, and slightly warmer across the southern portion of the forecast area where less cloudiness is expected and onshore flow will be slackening.

Temperatures will then gradually warm through the remainder of the week as upper level ridging centered over the 4 Corners area begins to expand westward. Highs will rise to a little above average through the second half of the week.

Extended Discussion (Saturday through Tuesday)

Ensemble guidance continues to show high pressure over the four corners region this weekend with weak troughing approaching the PacNW by early next week. Slightly above average temperatures will be seen Saturday, decreasing back to near average by Sunday. Valley highs Saturday will range from the upper 90s to low 100s. Mostly clear skies and dry weather look to persist during this extended period.