SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The calm before the storm won’t last long across the Central Valley. Early risers will wake to still, mild air today, but by Thursday morning, a surge of strong southerly winds will rattle through the Sacramento region — bending trees, scattering leaves, and sending dust swirling along I-5 and Highway 99.
According to the National Weather Service in Sacramento, a Wind Advisory is in effect from 10 p.m. Wednesday through 1 p.m. Thursday, covering much of the Sacramento Valley, Carquinez Strait and Delta, and Northern San Joaquin Valley. Winds are expected to reach 25 mph sustained, with gusts up to 50 mph, strongest around daybreak Thursday.
Commuters should prepare for difficult travel, especially those driving high-profile vehicles or crossing exposed roadways. Loose outdoor objects should be secured, and small power outages are possible where limbs snap onto lines. The strongest gusts will ease by midday Thursday as a cold front brings steady showers, adding slickness to already wind-tossed streets.
By Thursday night, the system slides east, leaving showers and calmer winds. Temperatures hold in the low 60s through Friday before climbing again under mostly sunny skies Saturday and Sunday. Weekend highs may reach the mid-60s, offering a brief break for outdoor plans or early Thanksgiving travel prep.
Forecasters are watching another Pacific wave forming offshore early next week, one that could deliver more rain — and perhaps the first hint of colder air sneaking toward Northern California just before Thanksgiving.
After a blustery Thursday, calmer, cooler air will remind the region that winter’s doorstep is getting closer.
Five-Day Outlook for Sacramento, CA:
Thu: 63/51 – Windy AM; rain likely.
Fri: 61/48 – Cloudy; few showers.
Sat: 65/51 – Mostly sunny; lighter winds.
Sun: 68/50 – Dry; pleasant.
Mon: 59/44 – Clouds return; rain possible late.
