Hanford, California – Afternoon thunderstorms and a heightened risk of lightning are expected to impact the Sierra crest, including Yosemite National Park, on Wednesday, July 23, as Pacific moisture sweeps into Central California. Visitors and residents could see a 10 to 30 percent chance of thunderstorms, especially during the afternoon and evening hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Hanford, the greatest probability of lightning strikes will occur in the high Sierra, with spots like Tioga Pass and Benton Hot Springs facing up to a 25% risk from 5 a.m. through 11 p.m. Wednesday. The advisory extends across Tuolumne, Mono, and Inyo counties, with lower, but still notable, chances near Lake Thomas Edison and Kennedy Meadows.
Highway 120 through Yosemite and areas along the eastern Sierra should be prepared for sudden storms, gusty winds, and dangerous cloud-to-ground lightning. The National Park Service urges all visitors to practice lightning safety, avoid exposed ridges during storms, and move to safe shelters when thunder is heard.
With fire danger elevated, officials recommend postponing hikes and outdoor activities, charging devices in advance, and monitoring alerts from Caltrans and the National Park Service.
Thunderstorm chances will diminish overnight, but visitors should remain alert for further advisories if the pattern persists.
