HANFORD, Calif. – A sharp shift from sunshine to soaking rain will greet Kings County residents as fall weather takes a cooler turn by Tuesday. After a warm Columbus Day with highs near 67°F, the National Weather Service warns that widespread showers and possible thunderstorms could slow commutes and cause brief ponding on local roads, including Highway 198 and nearby rural routes.
According to the National Weather Service in Hanford, rain chances increase sharply Monday night and peak Tuesday afternoon, with rainfall totals between a half and three-quarters of an inch. Gusts could reach 20 mph as a Pacific system sweeps across the Central Valley, ending the region’s stretch of warm, dry October days. Drivers should reduce speed on slick roads, and parents are urged to plan extra travel time for school drop-offs Tuesday morning.
By Wednesday, skies will clear and a crisp fall chill will linger, dropping morning lows into the mid-40s. The midweek sunshine should help dry out area fields and make ideal conditions for pumpkin patch visits and outdoor cleanup after the rain. Caltrans advises checking local travel alerts before heading east toward the Sierra foothills, where minor flooding is possible on smaller roads.
The rest of the week stays bright and mild — a classic Central Valley autumn pattern returning just in time for mid-October events and fall decorations.
Five-Day Forecast for Hanford, CA:
Sun: 74/47 – Sunny and mild; light northwest breeze in the afternoon.
Mon: 67/53 – Increasing clouds; rain developing late evening.
Tue: 61/47 – Rain and scattered thunderstorms; gusts to 20 mph, slower morning commute.
Wed: 64/46 – Sunny, cool and breezy; improving conditions.
Thu: 68/48 – Bright skies; perfect for fall yard work or pumpkin patch visits.
