URGENT UPDATE: California is bracing for a significant weather shift as ‘sauna-like conditions’ and thunderstorms are set to impact the state this week. After enjoying pleasant fall-like temperatures, residents should prepare for increased humidity and the potential for severe thunderstorms.
Starting mid-week, a surge of monsoonal moisture from the south will elevate humidity levels, creating uncomfortable conditions across the region. The National Weather Service warns of increasing mid- and high-level clouds, warmer overnight lows, and a chance of rain showers starting Thursday.
Inland areas, including Paso Robles, are projected to reach temperatures soaring from the mid-90s to low 100s by Tuesday and Wednesday. Coastal valleys will experience highs in the mid-80s, while beachgoers will find cooler temperatures ranging from the high 60s to low 70s.
As the upper-level high-pressure system builds over California, the northwesterly winds will diminish to speeds between 8 to 18 mph. Fog is expected to blanket the coast from Tuesday to Wednesday, producing pockets of mist during morning hours.
The humidity is expected to peak towards the weekend, with the National Weather Service projecting thunderstorm chances to escalate to between 10-35% on Thursday and Friday. These storms could bring dry lightning, posing a risk for fire starts and erratic winds, particularly in mountainous and desert regions.
Officials caution that the potential for brief heavy downpours and flooding could arise as early as Wednesday and persist through the weekend. With rising dew point temperatures, many areas along the Central Coast may feel akin to an enormous sauna, amplifying discomfort.
As California transitions from summer to fall, the Autumn equinox will officially occur on September 22 at 11:18 a.m., marking a day of nearly equal daylight and darkness. This shift will see a reduction in daylight by approximately three minutes, further emphasizing the changing seasons.
Residents are urged to stay updated on weather alerts and prepare for the potential impacts of these severe conditions. As California faces this weather upheaval, the community must remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure safety.
