273
FXUS66 KSTO 131936
AFDSTO

Area Forecast Discussion
National Weather Service Sacramento CA
1236 PM PDT Fri Mar 13 2026

.KEY MESSAGES...

 - Dry weather with well-above normal temperatures expected
   through next week with Minor to Moderate HeatRisk

&&

.DISCUSSION...

...Today-Sunday...
Latest GOES-West visible satellite imagery shows partly to mostly
sunny skies across interior northern California on this Friday
afternoon. Temperatures continue to trend above normal for mid
March climatology, with highs in the 70s to low 80s in the Valley
and foothills and 60s to 80s in the mountains the next few days.
The upper level pattern will feature the ridge flattening slightly
over the weekend as a trough drops down to the east. This will
allow for increased northerly flow behind it with gusts of 15 to
25 mph at times from Saturday into Sunday. Minor HeatRisk is also
forecast mainly for the Valley and foothills. Relative humidity
will be trending low as well, especially over the ridges and
higher terrain.

...Monday-Thursday...
The ridge will then build back in and strengthen. This will allow
for the continued rise in temperatures into next week. There is
still an impressive EFI (Extreme Forecast Index) signal for above
normal temperatures. Forecast highs will rise to the 70s to low
90s next week. Widespread Minor HeatRisk is forecast for interior
NorCal with areas of Moderate HeatRisk. Warmest temperatures are
expected over the second half of the week, and have trended
slightly warmer with this latest forecast package. Area waterways
are still running cold from snowmelt. Be sure to plan ahead for
the warmer weather and take the necessary precautions near
waterways.

&&

.AVIATION...
VFR conditions are expected through the TAF period, with winds
around 5-10kts going light and variable this evening and
overnight.

&&

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

&&

$$