Northern California Forecast: Bay Area to Experience Above-Normal Temperatures Before Cooler Weekend

These conditions are expected to persist until around 8 AM when daytime heating will help dissipate the fog.Photo byIvana CajinaonUnsplash

The Bay Area is set to experience unseasonably warm temperatures today as a high-pressure system dominates the region. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), temperatures will range from 5 to 10 degrees above normal, with inland areas expected to reach the mid-90s, while coastal regions will hover in the 70s and 80s.

The warm weather is due to a high-pressure ridge compressing the marine layer to just 500 feet, which has resulted in dense fog and low stratus clouds in areas south of Santa Cruz. These conditions are expected to persist until around 8 AM when daytime heating will help dissipate the fog.

Bay Area residents, particularly in areas with low dew point depressions, should be on the lookout for fog formation in the early morning hours before the sun fully rises. After the fog clears, ample sunshine will contribute to the warm afternoon, with the hottest temperatures occurring inland.

Looking ahead, a significant change is expected over the weekend. The NWS forecasts a return to more seasonal, cooler weather as the high-pressure system weakens. However, early next week, an offshore wind pattern will bring in hotter and drier conditions, raising concerns about elevated fire risk across the region.

Bay Area residents are advised to stay prepared for shifting weather patterns in the days to come, especially with the potential for increased fire danger next week.