Hanford, California – A low but notable chance for isolated thunderstorms could bring brief heavy rain and dangerous lightning to parts of central California today, including sections of the San Joaquin Valley and nearby foothills.
According to the National Weather Service in Hanford, there is a 10 to 15 percent chance of thunderstorms developing Sunday, mainly during the late morning through evening hours. The highest risk extends across portions of the San Joaquin Valley, the Sierra Nevada, and adjacent foothill communities. While storms are expected to be scattered and short-lived, any that form could produce quick downpours, small hail, gusty winds, and frequent lightning.
Even a single thunderstorm could cause localized impacts, especially for outdoor activities, agriculture, and travel. Brief heavy rain may lead to ponding on roadways, while gusty winds could impact high-profile vehicles. Lightning poses the greatest risk, particularly in open areas, foothills, and higher terrain where storms are more likely to develop.
Communities including Fresno, Visalia, Hanford, Bakersfield, and nearby rural areas should remain weather-aware through the afternoon and evening. Storm coverage is expected to remain limited, but conditions can change quickly where cells develop.
Residents are advised to move indoors if thunder is heard, avoid open fields and ridgelines, and be prepared for sudden weather changes. The thunderstorm threat diminishes later this evening, with quieter conditions expected to return overnight. Additional updates will be issued if storm coverage becomes more widespread than anticipated.
