Eureka, California – Strong thunderstorms are expected to develop Sunday afternoon across Trinity, northeast Mendocino, and northern Lake Counties, bringing dangerous lightning, gusty winds, and the potential for hail and brief downpours.
According to the National Weather Service in Eureka, storms could begin impacting the area by mid-afternoon Sunday, July 27, and continue into the evening hours. The threat includes cloud-to-ground lightning strikes, erratic outflow winds, and small hail, with localized areas seeing intense rain bursts. The unstable conditions could also spark new wildfires due to lightning.
Trinity County is expected to be at the center of the storm activity, with Weaverville, Hayfork, and the surrounding region likely to experience the brunt of the impacts. Gusty winds may disrupt outdoor events, and lightning could pose a risk to campers and hikers. Northern Lake County and parts of eastern Mendocino—particularly near Covelo—should also prepare for sudden weather shifts.
Residents are urged to move indoors when thunder is heard, avoid open spaces, and shelter in sturdy buildings or vehicles. The National Weather Service advises suspending outdoor plans, especially in wildfire-prone areas.
Additional updates may follow Sunday morning as conditions evolve. Stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio or weather.gov/Eureka for alerts.
