Hanford, CA – Tropical moisture pushing north through the desert southwest could spark thunderstorms in parts of eastern Kern County on Tuesday, according to the U.S. National Weather Service in Hanford.
Forecasters say there’s a 10 to 20 percent probability of lightning across the Kern County Desert, with the strongest cells capable of producing cloud-to-ground lightning, brief heavy rainfall, gusty and erratic winds, and small hail. The National Weather Service map shows the highest risk stretching near Ridgecrest, Inyokern, and Edwards Air Force Base, with probabilities tapering westward toward the Tehachapi Mountains.
According to meteorologists, the moisture is part of a tropical system drifting through the desert southwest, helping to fuel localized convection over inland California. While widespread rain is not expected, the Weather Service cautions that any isolated storms could develop rapidly and pose hazards for travelers and outdoor workers.
Residents are advised to monitor updates and avoid open areas during lightning activity. Storm chances diminish by late Thursday evening, with drier conditions expected to return heading into the weekend.
