Active weather is set to make its presence known across California as the month of March ushers warmer days and cooler temperatures. After experiencing seasonable warmth during the last week, residents from Stockton to Monterey Bay are bracing for changes as rain and even thunderstorms approach the forecast.
This weekend marks the start of shifts in the weather pattern, promising showers and cooler conditions. For Stockton residents, who enjoyed high temperatures nearing 74°F earlier this week, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued predictions for sunny skies followed by evening rain. The forecast indicates a 30% chance of showers starting Saturday night, ramping up to 70% Sunday, particularly from 10 AM to 4 PM. Potential thunderstorms could accompany the rains, bringing cooler temperatures with Sunday highs only reaching 59°F.
Stockton has already seen significant rainfall, with 7.91 inches accumulated since October 1, albeit shy of the 9.59-inch average expected by this time of year. This next round of rainfall is welcome news for local farmers and the agricultural sector, which is pivotal to the economy of San Joaquin County.
Similarly, the Monterey Bay area is anticipating cooler temperatures and increased cloud cover as high clouds stream in from the south. The first hints of change will manifest with high temperatures dropping to the upper 50s to low 60s along the coast and low to mid-70s inland. Winds will pick up, making conditions feel warmer as they shift direction with the oncoming weather front.
Residents along the coast are advised to stay safe as surf conditions become hazardous, with powerful westerly swells generating breakers up to 14 feet, posing risks of localized beach erosion and dangerous swimming conditions. The National Weather Service has implemented high surf advisories, underscoring the need for caution when enjoying California's beaches this weekend.
By Sunday, conditions will deteriorate as temperatures continue to plummet and the threat of rain becomes more prevalent. Rain is expected to roll through California, with the NWS stating the weather system could lead to the possibility of thunderstorms. The cooler temperatures will extend to much of the state, with highs mainly stuck in the 50s.
This shift to rainy weather is expected to last well beyond the weekend, as meteorologists anticipate active patterns to continue through early March, with above-average precipitation predicted. The Climate Prediction Center hints at below-normal temperatures alongside above-normal precipitation throughout the week.
Looking at the broader weather scene, Montana also anticipates changes as warm weather is met with increasing cloud cover, signaling the arrival of spring-like conditions. Normal temperatures for this time of year have been around the low 40s; this weekend residents can expect highs reaching the mid-50s, though those will drop as incoming weather systems impact the region.
Both widespread and localized weather forecasts urge residents to remain informed, especially with potential rain and snow showers expected from Monday’s weather systems. The precise paths of these systems will determine who benefits most from the precipitation.
So, as the weekend approaches, Californians are encouraged to seize the sunny moments, prepare for rainy conditions, and stay alert for updates from weather services as active weather patterns return.