Hanford, California – Hikers, campers and outdoor recreation enthusiasts heading into the Sierra Nevada today should keep a close eye on the sky as isolated thunderstorms are expected to develop along the higher elevations this afternoon and early evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Hanford, there is a 10% to 15% probability of thunderstorms forming along the Sierra Nevada crest later today. While coverage is expected to remain limited, any storm that develops could produce dangerous cloud-to-ground lightning capable of threatening outdoor activities with little warning.
The greatest risk will be across higher elevations near the Sierra crest, including popular recreation areas in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks and surrounding mountain terrain. Thunderstorms may begin developing during the afternoon before gradually diminishing during the evening hours.
Even isolated storms can create hazardous conditions for hikers on exposed ridgelines, boaters on mountain lakes and anyone participating in outdoor activities. Lightning can strike several miles away from the storm itself, making early sheltering critical once thunder is heard.
According to National Weather Service safety guidance, residents and visitors should immediately move into a substantial building or hard-topped vehicle if thunder is heard. Outdoor activities should not resume until at least 30 minutes after the last rumble of thunder.
Lower elevations across the San Joaquin Valley are expected to remain dry, but those traveling into the mountains should remain weather aware throughout the afternoon. Additional forecast updates may be issued if thunderstorm coverage becomes more widespread than currently expected.
