October 24, 2017 – Dry and warm weather this week. Locally breezy north winds today.
Discussion
Skies remain clear under strong high pressure. Strong north to east surface gradients continue (MFR-SAC is around 8.5 mbs and RNO-SAC is 11.5 mbs) resulting in local northeast wind gusts of 30-40 mph in the northern Sierra foothills and Coast Range while winds in the Central Valley are generally under 15 mph.
Current temperatures are mild ranging from the 30s in the mountain valleys to the 50s in the Central Valley except 70s across the northern Sacramento Valley.
Warm temperatures will continue today under strong high pressure with highs again expected to run around 10-15 degrees above average. A few record highs will be possible as readings increase a couple of degrees from Monday. Winds are expected to drop off today as pressure gradients gradually slacken.
High pressure will weaken somewhat Wednesday thru Friday, but temperatures are expected to remain above average.
Extended discussion (Saturday through Tuesday)
Dry and warm conditions continue going into the weekend Saturday as high amplitude high pressure ridge remains over the west coast. Daytime highs Saturday will remain 5-10 degrees above normal.
Upper ridge breaks down a bit on Sunday as a shortwave weather system drops into the Pacific Northwest. Daytime highs will take a noticeable drop but will still come in a few degrees above normal. Upper trough drops through NorCal on Monday bringing a bit more cooling but models keep any precipitation well east of the forecast area. Dry with slightly above normal temperatures continue going into mid week.