HANFORD, Calif. – A calm, misty morning settles across the San Joaquin Valley, but change is coming quickly. After several warm and quiet days, a Pacific storm will push inland by midweek, bringing widespread rain, gusty winds, and the first real hint of late-fall chill for Central California.
According to the National Weather Service in Hanford, Wednesday will start mild near 76 degrees before rain develops by afternoon. Showers are likely across Kings, Tulare, and Fresno counties by late day, with a few isolated thunderstorms possible Wednesday night into Thursday morning. Forecasters expect a quarter to a half inch of rain in most valley locations, with heavier totals possible in foothills and on the west side of the Valley.
South-southeast winds may gust near 25 mph during the heaviest rain, reducing visibility along I-5 and Highway 99. Drivers planning midweek commutes should expect slower travel and slick roadways, especially during evening hours Wednesday and early Thursday.
Rain will linger through Thursday evening before tapering to scattered showers Friday. Cooler, drier air follows, with weekend highs dipping back into the upper 60s — a sharp drop from this week’s unseasonable warmth. For now, there’s no sign of frost or freezing, but forecasters hint that colder nights could arrive before Thanksgiving.
Residents are encouraged to clear gutters, secure outdoor items, and check windshield wipers before the wet weather arrives. After all, the coming storm marks a clear shift toward the Central Valley’s late-fall rhythm — wetter, breezier, and unmistakably November.
Five-Day Forecast for Hanford, CA:
Tue: 77/57 – Mostly sunny; calm winds.
Wed: 76/57 – Rain developing late; breezy south winds.
Thu: 64/50 – Showers; chance thunderstorm early.
Fri: 64/44 – Chance showers; gradual clearing.
Sat: 69/44 – Partly sunny; dry and cool.
