Sacramento, California – Spring 2026 could turn warmer and drier across Northern California, limiting late-season storm systems and reducing additional Sierra snowpack gains before summer.
According to NOAA’s Seasonal Temperature and Precipitation Outlook released February 19, Northern California is favored to see above normal temperatures combined with below normal precipitation during March-April-May 2026. That pairing signals more frequent mild to warm afternoons and fewer widespread Pacific storm systems through the core of spring.
In Sacramento and the Central Valley, March may still bring occasional passing systems, but overall rainfall totals could trend lighter than average. Daytime highs may climb into the 70s more often by April, with 80-degree afternoons possible before May ends. Reduced precipitation may also accelerate drying of grasses and open spaces earlier in the season.
Redding, Chico and Red Bluff could see extended dry stretches punctuated by brief frontal passages. Warmer temperatures combined with limited rainfall may elevate early wildfire concerns across Shasta and Tehama counties, especially during windy periods.
In the Sierra Nevada, including Truckee, fewer late-season snow events may limit additional accumulation. Warmer daytime highs could accelerate snowmelt, affecting runoff timing and reservoir planning heading into summer.
Overall, Northern California appears poised for a warmer and drier-than-average spring. Residents should prepare for earlier heat spells, reduced mountain snowfall and heightened fire weather concerns through May as the region transitions toward summer.
