California — Headlights glow through pockets of fog this morning as visibility drops suddenly along surface streets and freeways. The air feels damp and cool, and Winter Weather quietly shapes the commute as Sacramento eases into the first full week of January 2026.
Current temperatures hover near 50 degrees, but fog forms easily with light winds and high humidity. Meteorologists are tracking patchy dense fog developing late and lingering into the morning commute. Drivers along I-5, Highway 50, and I-80 should expect sudden visibility drops, especially near rivers and low-lying neighborhoods.
Skies brighten later today. Sunshine breaks through by late morning, pushing highs toward the upper 50s. The calm, mild afternoon may feel welcoming, but colder air returns quickly after sunset. Tonight, temperatures fall into the upper 40s, and fog reforms again toward daybreak.
Fog remains a recurring issue into Wednesday. Morning visibility may again be reduced before gradual clearing. Afternoon highs settle closer to the mid-50s as a cooler pattern slides in behind weak systems moving through Northern California.
By Thursday, Winter conditions feel sharper. Skies stay mostly sunny, but highs drop closer to 50 degrees. Gusty north winds develop during the afternoon, adding a chill. Overnight lows dip into the upper 30s, raising frost concerns for early risers and sensitive plants.
Travel remains mostly dry through the week, but fog continues to be the primary hazard. Reduced visibility can create sudden slowdowns, especially during school drop-off and early commutes. Use low-beam headlights and allow extra stopping distance.
Looking ahead, Friday and the weekend bring steadier sunshine and slightly milder afternoons. Patchy fog may still appear during early mornings, but overall travel conditions improve. By late January, Sacramento gains nearly 40 extra minutes of daylight, a welcome shift after dark winter mornings.
Seeing thick fog where you live? Share what visibility looks like in your neighborhood.
Five-Day Outlook for Sacramento, California
- Today: Morning fog, mostly sunny, high near 57°
- Wednesday: Patchy fog early, clearing, high near 55°
- Thursday: Sunny and cooler, breezy, high near 50°
- Friday: Sunny, chilly morning, high near 50°
- Saturday: Patchy fog early, partly sunny, high near 51°
