California – Rain tapped steadily against rooftops this morning as low clouds hugged the San Joaquin Valley, signaling a damp and unsettled start to the new year. Wet pavement, muted visibility, and off-and-on downpours are already shaping daily routines, with more rain expected before conditions slowly ease early next week.
According to the National Weather Service in Hanford, periods of rain and isolated thunderstorms continue today, with rainfall chances remaining high into Sunday. Some locations could see bursts of heavier rain this afternoon and evening, enough to cause ponding on roads and muddy conditions in fields. Highs reach the lower 60s before cooler air arrives Sunday night.
In and around Hanford, drivers should watch for slick spots on Highway 198 and rural roads, especially during heavier showers. Reduced visibility may develop at times, particularly early and late in the day. Plan extra travel time and keep headlights on in rain and fog. For now, flooding concerns remain localized, but drainage areas should be monitored.
Rain persists into Sunday with temperatures holding in the mid-50s. Showers gradually become more scattered Sunday night into Monday, though damp roads linger. By Tuesday, skies trend mostly cloudy and drier, offering a brief break from the rain.
Looking ahead to the first full week of 2026, cooler nights settle in. Lows dip into the 40s, and while freezing temperatures are not expected, wet ground may feel chilly during early mornings. Any late-week clearing could allow patchy fog to develop before sunrise.
More updates are possible as additional systems track across California.
Five-Day Outlook for Hanford, California
- Today: Showers, high near 61
- Sunday: Showers, high near 55
- Monday: Chance of rain, high near 55
- Tuesday: Mostly cloudy, high near 54
- Wednesday: Slight chance of rain, high near 51



