Sacramento, California – Scattered thunderstorms threaten the mountains, foothills, and northern Shasta County today, with the highest risk of lightning, hail, and sudden downpours expected between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m. Thursday. Residents from Redding to the Sierra foothills should stay alert for rapidly changing conditions and potential fire starts.
According to the National Weather Service in Sacramento, the greatest chance for storms stretches across northern Shasta County and surrounding high terrain, bringing lightning strikes, small hail, brief heavy rain, and gusty winds. These conditions raise the risk for new wildfires, especially in dry, grassy areas already prone to rapid fire spread.
Key highways, including I-5 near Redding and CA-44 toward Lassen Park, may experience sudden visibility drops or slick pavement during downpours. Emergency crews urge drivers to slow down, never drive through flooded roads, and have multiple ways to receive weather alerts. If thunder is heard, head indoors immediately to reduce lightning risk.
Today’s storms could trigger brief power outages and outdoor activity disruptions across Redding, Chico, Yuba City, and surrounding communities. Residents are encouraged to charge electronic devices, avoid unnecessary outdoor plans, and secure loose items that could become projectiles in gusty winds.
Thunderstorm chances may linger through the evening, with additional alerts possible if activity intensifies. Stay tuned for updates from local officials and the National Weather Service.
