California wakes to a cold, quiet start in the Central Valley as frost coats lawns and fog pools low near the rivers. Headlights glow through the haze, and the air feels crisp enough to sting bare hands.
According to the National Weather Service in Sacramento, temperatures dipped into the mid-30s early, with areas of frost and patchy fog developing before sunrise. Visibility drops quickly in spots, especially near the American and Sacramento rivers and across low-lying neighborhoods.
Sacramento drivers face the greatest risk during the early commute. Patchy fog can thicken without warning, and cold pavement may feel slick on bridges and overpasses. Slow down, use low-beam headlights, and allow extra distance between vehicles until conditions improve later this morning.
By midday, sunshine breaks through and helps temperatures rebound into the low 50s. To be fair, the turnaround feels sharp. Winter coats feel necessary early, then lighter layers work by afternoon. Calm winds allow fog to redevelop again after sunset, repeating the cycle through the weekend.
Saturday and Sunday bring similar conditions. Mornings start cold with fog and frost potential, followed by partly sunny afternoons near the low 50s. Patchy fog may linger longer on Sunday morning, especially in shaded areas and near waterways.
Meteorologists continue tracking major winter storms across the country, including snow and flooding elsewhere. Locally, Sacramento avoids precipitation, but winter hazards still matter. Flash freezing can occur where fog moisture settles and temperatures dip again overnight.
By early next week, afternoon highs inch upward and fog becomes more confined to overnight and early morning hours. Until then, winter mornings demand patience.
Heading out early today or this weekend? Where did fog slow you down the most?
Five Day Weather Outlook for Sacramento, California
- Friday: Areas of frost early, then sunny, high near 52°F
- Saturday: Patchy morning fog, partly sunny, high near 53°F
- Sunday: Patchy fog early, partly sunny, high near 52°F
- Monday: Areas of fog early, mostly sunny, high near 53°F
- Tuesday: Patchy fog early, partly sunny, high near 55°F
