504
FXUS66 KSTO 122017
AFDSTO

Area Forecast Discussion
National Weather Service Sacramento CA
117 PM PDT Thu Mar 12 2026

.KEY MESSAGES...

 - Well-above normal temperatures expected through next week with
   mainly Minor HeatRisk

&&

.DISCUSSION...

...Today-Friday...
Current GOES-West visible satellite imagery illustrates sunny
skies across interior northern California on this Thursday
afternoon. Temperatures will continue to trend above normal today
and over the next several days as upper level ridging remains the
primary synoptic feature influencing the region`s weather. Highs
today and Friday are forecast to be in the 70s to 80 in the Valley
and foothills, and 60s to 70s in the mountains. 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.

...Saturday-Wednesday...
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 some increased northerly flow behind it with gusts of 15
to 20 mph at times from Saturday into Sunday. The ridge will then
build back in and strengthen. This will allow for the continued
rise in temperatures into next week. There is an impressive EFI
(Extreme Forecast Index) signal for above normal temperatures
especially next week. Forecast highs are currently in the 60s-80s
across the area Saturday, rising to the 70s to potentially around
the low 90s next week. Widespread Minor HeatRisk is forecast for
interior NorCal with some isolated Moderate HeatRisk in the Delta
and Valley. 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. Slight chance of lowered visibility from haze/mist over
the eastern Sacramento Valley from 12z to 17z Friday.

&&

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

&&

$$