401
FXUS66 KSTO 251922
AFDSTO

Area Forecast Discussion
National Weather Service Sacramento CA
1222 PM PDT Wed Mar 25 2026

.KEY MESSAGES...

 - Above normal temperatures continue through the weekend with
   Minor HeatRisk and dry conditions

 - Gusty and drying northerly flow on Thursday

 - Pattern change next week brings precipitation chances and
   cooler temperatures back to the region

&&

.DISCUSSION...

...Through Sunday...
Latest GOES-West visible satellite imagery illustrates mostly
sunny skies across interior northern California on this Wednesday
afternoon. Upper level ridging continues across the western
United States, bringing above normal temperatures to the region
today. A weak upper low will traverse southern California,
bringing along slightly cooler temperatures and gusty northerly
flow behind it tonight through Friday morning. The latest wind
gust forecast has trended slightly higher, which may lead to minor
impacts such as loose outdoor objects blowing around. Strongest
winds are projected for Thursday where gusts of around 20 to 40
mph are forecast in the Sacramento Valley and adjacent terrain.
Winds then decrease through the day on Friday. High pressure
builds back in for the weekend bringing warmer temperatures and
Minor HeatRisk for much of the forecast area. Highs are forecast
to be in the 70s to 80s for the Valley and foothills and 60s to
80s in the mountins over this timeframe. These temperatures
continue to trend well above normal for late March climatology and
individuals should practice heat safety and use caution and life
jackets near cold area waterways.

...Next Week...
Confidence is increasing in a significant pattern change next week
as ensemble guidance continues to indicate upper level troughing
returning to the region. This will bring along the potential for
rain and mountain snow chances. Best chances currently look like
the mid to late week timeframe. Temperatures will also trend
cooler and more seasonable for the time of year. Periodically
breezy winds and isolated thunderstorms cannot be ruled out.
There is still uncertainty in exact details and timing so be sure
to plan ahead for wetter weather and check back frequently for
updates!

&&

.AVIATION...
VFR conditions to prevail across NorCal next 24 hours. Light
Valley winds and breezy higher elevation winds become breezy to
gusty from the north to east after 06z. Strongest winds gusting 25
to 35 kts are expected along and west of the Interstate 5
corridor in the Sacramento Valley, with gusts up to 20 kts
possible further southward.

&&

.STO WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES...
None.

&&

$$