Cooling Trend Begins in Central California: Showers, Thunderstorms

The current weather pattern is bringing some relief with temperatures cooling slightlyPhoto byEvan WiseonUnsplash

Central California is set to experience a gradual cooling trend starting today as an upper-level high pressure system begins to weaken, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Hanford. Despite this, afternoon temperatures are expected to remain above normal through Tuesday.

The current weather pattern is bringing some relief with temperatures cooling slightly, but conditions will still be warmer than usual. In addition, there is a 10 to 15 percent chance of isolated showers and thunderstorms over the Kern County Mountains and Desert this afternoon and evening, attributed to monsoonal moisture affecting the region.

However, the combination of low daytime humidity and poor overnight recovery is raising concerns about an elevated risk of grass fires in eastern Kern County and the West Side Hills through early next week.

Looking ahead, a significant change is expected midweek as an upper-level trough drops southward into the western United States. This will likely bring near-normal temperatures to central California. Specifically, there is an 80 to 90 percent chance that afternoon highs in the San Joaquin Valley will stay below 90 degrees by Thursday.