453
FXUS66 KSTO 222000
AFDSTO

Area Forecast Discussion
National Weather Service Sacramento CA
100 PM PDT Sun Mar 22 2026

.KEY MESSAGES...

 - Above normal temperatures continue into the week ahead with
   widespread Minor HeatRisk

 - Gusty and drying northerly flow mid to late week, strongest on
   Thursday

&&

.DISCUSSION...
Latest GOES-West visible satellite imagery illustrates some high
clouds passing over interior northern California on this Sunday
afternoon, with mostly sunny sky conditions. Temperatures are
currently trending a few degrees cooler than this time 24 hours
ago. Locally breezy northerly flow is being observed in the
northern Sacramento Valley and will gradually decrease this
afternoon. The upper level pattern will feature high pressure as
the primary synoptic feature this week, allowing for continued
well above normal temperatures and widespread Minor HeatRisk for
the Valley/Delta, foothills and mountains.

Another round of increased northerly flow is forecast mid to late
week. Strongest winds are currently expected on Thursday. The
National Blend of Models (NBM) has increased the wind gust
forecast with the latest run, with gusts of 20 to 30 MPH
especially in the Valley north and west of Sacramento. Relative
humidity will lower on this day as well, down to the teens and 20s.
The north wind and anomalous temperatures will continue to
accelerate the drying of fuels across the area. Ensemble guidance
then indicates the potential for some minor cooling next weekend
into the following week with precipitation chances possible,
however confidence is low on any details.

As high temperatures continue to run 10 to 20 degrees above the
late March climatological normal through the week, individuals
should practice heat safety. Please be sure to stay hydrated and
take breaks from being in the sun during the heat of the day.
Always remember to use caution and wear a life jacket near area
waterways.

&&

.AVIATION...
VFR conditions next 24 hours across interior NorCal. Surface
winds below 12 kts at all sites except in the northern Sacramento
Valley (RDD and RBL) where northerly wind gusts of 15 to 20 kts
continue through around 21Z Sunday before decreasing.

&&

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

&&

$$