Fresno, California – A weak system moving through Central California this afternoon may trigger isolated thunderstorms along the Sierra Nevada crest between 2 and 8 p.m., potentially impacting outdoor recreation and travel east of Fresno.
According to the National Weather Service in Hanford, storm chances range from 10 to 20 percent, with the highest probability near the Yosemite and Kings Canyon National Park regions. While brief, these storms could produce lightning and gusty winds, especially in higher elevations.
Meanwhile, a warming trend will grip the San Joaquin Valley this week, pushing temperatures toward the mid-90s by Friday. Cities like Bakersfield, Visalia, and Hanford face a 95% chance of reaching or exceeding 90°F by May 30, with the heat steadily building after a cooler Memorial Day weekend.
Residents should limit outdoor activity during peak heat hours and ensure vulnerable groups, including the elderly and outdoor workers, stay hydrated and cool. Those traveling into the Sierra this afternoon should monitor for lightning and avoid exposed ridgelines.
The thunderstorm threat tapers by tonight, but rising temperatures will dominate the week. Additional heat advisories could be issued by midweek.
