SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Residents of Sacramento and surrounding areas are bracing for gusty winds and chilly morning lows as the National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts mostly dry conditions through midweek. However, the calm may be short-lived, with the possibility of more active weather returning by the weekend.
Today’s gusty winds, while brisk, are expected to remain below Wind Advisory levels. The Sierra crest could see gusts as strong as 45 mph, while portions of the northern and central Sacramento Valley may experience gusts between 20 and 30 mph. Meanwhile, isolated light showers persist south of Highway 50, with light snowfall reported along the Sierra crest and its western slope. Additional snowfall is expected to be minimal due to the easterly upslope precipitation pattern.
As a cut-off low-pressure system shifts east and high pressure builds, interior Northern California is set for calmer conditions this week. However, overnight temperatures will dip significantly, with Valley lows dropping into the lower 30s through Wednesday morning. Frost and fog are likely in low-lying areas, prompting the NWS to urge residents to protect vulnerable plants, pets, and people from cold weather impacts.
Later in the week, uncertainty looms regarding the weather pattern. While a slow-moving Pacific front could bring light precipitation by Friday, weekend forecasts remain divided. The European model predicts another trough passing through, leading to unsettled weather, while the GFS model suggests limited precipitation confined to northern regions.
Aviation conditions for the next 24 hours are expected to remain predominantly VFR, though localized MVFR/IFR conditions may develop in the eastern foothills and Sierra Nevada due to light showers or snow through Monday morning.
Sacramento residents are advised to stay updated on the evolving forecast, as the potential for weekend weather changes could impact travel and outdoor plans. For now, bundle up and prepare for a frosty start to the week!
