California’s North Coast starts the day wrapped in muted mist as patchy dense fog settles over Eureka, Arcata, and nearby stretches of Highway 101. Streetlights glow in a soft halo, and the air feels cool and damp—typical December calm before a shifting weather pattern moves in by Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service, visibility drops to around 2 miles at times, with pockets of thicker fog forming near the coast and low-lying valleys. Drivers moving through early-morning commute windows should reduce speed and expect sudden visibility swings, particularly near fields and wet pavement where fog can thicken abruptly. Use headlights and increase following distance to stay safe.
Meteorologists are now tracking a developing moisture push expected to reach the Humboldt coastline late Sunday. While today and Saturday trend mostly sunny once fog clears, models hint at a “winter tease” scenario—a shift from calm mornings to steady light rain Sunday night. The first showers may arrive after 4 p.m., with a higher likelihood of rainfall Monday and Tuesday as a Pacific system slides inland. Winds remain manageable, though southeast breezes pick up slightly Sunday afternoon.
To be fair, temperatures stay mild for December, with highs near 59° today and 61° Saturday, but cooler air returns once the rain sets in. Residents tackling holiday shopping or coastal drives should plan early outings for the clearest visibility.
Five-Day Outlook
Saturday: Fog early, then sunny. High 61°.
Sunday: Partly sunny, rain chance late. High 60°.
Monday: Showers likely, high 62°.
Tuesday: Rain likely, high 59°.
Wednesday: Rain continues, high 54°.
