California – Cold air pools across the Central Valley this morning as frost clings to windshields and fields sit stiff under a pale sky. Breath hangs in the air, and the ground crunches lightly in spots. Winter shows its teeth early today.
According to the National Weather Service office in Hanford, a Freeze Warning remains in effect until 10 a.m. Morning temperatures dropped as low as 31 degrees across the San Joaquin Valley, including Hanford, Lemoore, Visalia, and Merced. Calm winds and lingering mist allow cold air to settle near the surface.
This setup creates real impacts. Sensitive crops face damage, and unprotected outdoor plumbing could crack. Drivers may encounter slick patches on bridges and shaded rural roads, especially along Highway 198 and Highway 41 during the early commute.
Temperatures rebound later today as sunshine takes over. Highs climb into the mid-50s, easing immediate concerns. Still, the sharp swing from freezing to mild remains a hallmark of January weather in the valley.
Sunday brings a repeat pattern, though slightly less intense. Morning lows dip into the mid-30s, followed by partly sunny skies and highs near 55. Frost remains possible in colder pockets, especially outside city centers.
Early next week trends quieter and more stable. Daytime highs hold in the mid-50s to near 60, while overnight lows slowly rise toward the upper 30s and low 40s. No rain appears in sight.
By late January, daylight continues to increase, adding roughly 40 minutes of evening light by month’s end. That helps afternoons warm faster, though cold mornings linger.
Officials urge residents to protect plants, cover exposed pipes, and use caution on early drives. Winter conditions may ease by mid-morning, but impacts happen fast. Did you wake up to frost or frozen surfaces where you live?
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Hanford, California
- Today: Mostly sunny, high near 56°F
- Sunday: Partly sunny, high near 55°F
- Monday: Mostly sunny, high near 54°F
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 56°F
- Wednesday: Partly sunny, high near 58°F
