Fresno, California – A quieter and drier weather pattern is expected to settle across Central California heading into mid-January, bringing below-normal precipitation and lowering the chances for both rain and mountain snow.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, Central California is favored to see below-normal precipitation during the January 9–13 period, while temperatures trend near to slightly above seasonal averages. This setup supports fewer Pacific storm systems reaching the region and longer stretches of dry weather.
Across the Central Valley, including Fresno, Bakersfield, Modesto, and Stockton, rainfall chances appear limited, with dry conditions expected to dominate most days. Improved travel conditions are likely along Highway 99, I-5, and local roadways as storm impacts remain minimal.
In the Sierra Nevada, snow chances also appear lower than normal for this time of year. While cold overnight temperatures may persist at higher elevations, the lack of significant moisture reduces the risk for meaningful snow accumulation along mountain passes, including portions of Highway 50 and Highway 58.
Residents should remain mindful of chilly mornings and areas of valley fog during overnight and early morning hours where skies clear. Overall, the drier pattern is expected to continue into mid-January, though additional updates may be issued if storm tracks shift closer to California later in the month.
