Sacramento, Calif. – A low but potentially dangerous chance of thunderstorms could ignite new wildfires across Northern California’s mountain regions through Thursday, July 3, as hot, dry conditions persist.
According to the National Weather Service in Sacramento, there is a 10–20% chance of thunderstorms each afternoon from Monday to Thursday, mainly between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m. in the interior mountains of Northern California. Lightning strikes, gusty winds, small hail, and brief downpours are all possible, with fire starts a growing concern.
Impacts will focus on higher elevations, including the Sierra Nevada and Shasta-Trinity regions. Outdoor enthusiasts and campers in Plumas, Lassen, and El Dorado counties should remain alert to changing skies. While widespread storms are not expected, even isolated lightning can spark fires in dry vegetation.
Residents are advised to postpone high-elevation travel during peak hours, avoid open areas during thunder, and have a wildfire evacuation plan ready. “When thunder roars, go indoors,” officials emphasized.
The threat remains in place through July 3, with the highest risk during the hottest part of the day. Additional advisories may be issued if storm coverage increases.
