The first widespread heat of the season in California is set to arrive later this week as a narrow ridge of high pressure expands and a lingering upper-level low that kicked up strong winds and cooled the state down finally fizzles. These shifts will open the door to hot weather in places like the East Bay, Central Valley and California’s high deserts, where triple-digit temperatures are likely in some spots.
By Thursday, parts of the East Bay, South Bay and North Bay valleys will push into the upper 70s and low 80s. Then on Friday, high pressure will expand, the upper low will weaken and warmer air will surge inland. That’s when interior spots like Livermore and Antioch could flirt with 90 degrees, marking the first real warmup of the season.
- Heat in California : The science behind California’s worsening heat waves, explained
- More weather coverage : How the weather compares to local ‘climate normals’
But before we get to that point, expect a familiar marine layer pattern through Thursday. The marine layer will thicken a bit more each morning, spilling farther into inland valleys before gradually pulling back by midday. That will keep coastal highs modest, mostly in the 60s, while inland areas climb a little higher each day. By Thursday, parts of the East Bay, South Bay and North Bay valleys will push back into the upper 70s and low 80s, with more widespread warmth on tap Friday.
Even hotter weather is expected in the Central Valley, where highs will soar into the mid- to upper 90s. A few triple-digit readings are likely Friday and even warmer readings are possible Saturday in places like Fresno, Hanford and Bakersfield, a clear sign that summer isn’t far off.
Wednesday outlook
San Francisco: Expect a thicker, more widespread marine layer in the morning, with low clouds filling in across the city. Skies may brighten a bit by afternoon, but don’t expect full clearing. Highs will stay cool, in the upper 50s in the Sunset and Ocean Beach and low 60s across the rest of the city. West to southwest winds will pick up in the afternoon, with occasional gusts near 20 mph. Low clouds and fog return overnight with lows in the 50s…