Eureka, California – Lightning, gusty winds, and fire-start potential are on the table for parts of northern California this afternoon as isolated thunderstorms develop over the Klamath Mountains and into eastern Trinity County.
According to the National Weather Service in Eureka, there’s a 10 to 20% chance of thunderstorms forming through Sunday evening, primarily near Trinity Center, Weaverville, and surrounding mountainous areas. The storms could produce dangerous cloud-to-ground lightning and sudden wind gusts, creating hazardous conditions for outdoor activity and increasing the potential for new fire starts.
Drivers along Highway 299 and hikers near the Trinity Alps Wilderness are urged to remain alert. Anyone caught outdoors should move to a low-lying area or shelter indoors immediately if thunder is heard. Fire crews across the region remain on standby due to dry conditions and the elevated risk of ignition from lightning strikes.
The thunderstorm threat is expected to diminish by late evening. However, fire weather conditions may persist depending on lightning activity. Residents should stay weather-aware and monitor updates from the National Weather Service.