Eureka, California – Lightning, small hail, and sudden downpours could disrupt travel and outdoor plans within hours as thunderstorms expand across Northern California this afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Eureka, storms have already developed in Trinity County and will become more widespread Thursday afternoon into Friday, pushing into interior valleys and potentially reaching coastal communities including Eureka and Arcata.
The strongest storms may produce brief heavy rainfall capable of reducing visibility to under a mile, along with gusty winds that could topple small branches and create hazardous driving conditions on Highway 299 and other mountain routes. Small hail is also possible in stronger cells.
Residents in Redding, Weaverville, and inland Humboldt County should prepare for rapidly changing conditions during the afternoon and evening hours, when storm coverage is expected to peak.
Outdoor activities should be postponed when thunder is heard, and drivers should slow down during heavy rain bursts to avoid hydroplaning.
Storm chances continue through Friday evening, with additional updates likely as conditions evolve across Northern California.
