Hanford, California – A dangerous mix of high temperatures, gusty winds, and bone-dry humidity will hit Hanford and the surrounding Central Valley Friday, triggering a Fire Weather Watch and increasing wildfire risk into the holiday weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Hanford, a Fire Weather Watch remains in effect from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday for the San Joaquin Valley, including Hanford, the West Side Hills, and the Sierra Foothills. Winds from the west to northwest may reach 35 mph on ridges, with humidity dropping to just 5–15%, ideal conditions for fast-spreading fires. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged.
Friday will also mark the hottest day of the week in Hanford with a high of 93°F. Travelers along Highway 198 and Route 41 should expect visibility issues and increased fire danger. Residents are urged to avoid activities that may spark flames and to charge phones and prepare evacuation kits in fire-prone areas.
🔥 Memorial Day Weekend Outlook:
- Saturday: Sunny and hot, 87°F
- Sunday: 91°F and breezy; gusts up to 20 mph
- Memorial Day (Monday): 86°F, calm and sunny
- Tuesday & Wednesday: Holding steady near 87°F, with light northwest winds each afternoon
The combination of extreme dryness and rising summer temperatures will keep the fire threat elevated into early next week. Officials may upgrade to a Red Flag Warning, so check updates frequently.
⚠️ Stay weather aware and be fire safe — conditions will remain volatile through Memorial Day.
