Eureka, California – Interior areas of northwest California could see lightning and dangerous winds this afternoon and evening, with Trinity County facing the highest storm risk.
According to the National Weather Service in Eureka, there is a 15–25% chance of thunderstorms developing late Tuesday across east Del Norte, east Humboldt, northeast Mendocino, and Trinity counties. Potential hazards include frequent lightning strikes and erratic, gusty winds—especially in exposed and elevated terrain.
Residents in Weaverville, Willow Creek, and Hayfork should prepare to move indoors quickly if skies darken or thunder is heard. Lightning can strike without warning, posing threats to hikers, outdoor workers, and anyone in open areas. The NWS advises: “When thunder roars, go indoors!”
Drivers should also be alert for sudden wind gusts along highways like State Routes 299 and 36. Outdoor recreation should be postponed this afternoon due to rapidly changing weather.
The threat is expected to diminish by late evening, but more updates may follow if storm development increases. Stay tuned to weather.gov/Eureka or NOAA Weather Radio for the latest alerts.
