Strong storm approaches
The departing cold low that brought rain to the region over the past few days may throw a few more showers at us Friday. Fast on its heels, a warmer, but wetter storm will arrive this weekend. There is potential for heavy rain in the coastal mountains on Sunday. The active weather pattern will continue into next week with several rounds of rain and more seasonable temperatures.
*Frost Advisory*
The National Weather Service has issued a Frost Advisory 9AM Friday for the Santa Clara Valley (in Santa Clara County).
Expect temperatures in the low to middle 30s. Isolated locations may drop to the upper 20s.
Frost could kill sensitive outdoor vegetation if left uncovered. Sensitive populations may be adversely impacted by the cold temperatures.
*Winter Weather Advisory*
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory until 5pm tonight above 2500 ft in the Santa Lucia Mountains and Los Padres National Forest in Monterey County.
Snow showers, becoming more numerous later this morning and through about 5 pm this afternoon. Accumulations of 1-3 inches.
Slick, snow-covered roads and hiking trails. Hikers, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts with weekend plans in Santa Lucia Mountains and Los Padres National Forest may encounter dangerous winter-like conditions above the snow level. Heavier snow showers could produce limited visibilities.
Friday: Becoming partly cloudy with an isolated shower or two possible moving in off of the ocean. Snow possible above 2,000ft with any shower. Chilly with highs in the mid 40s to mid 50s.
Overnight: Partly to mostly cloudy skies. There is a slight chance for showers, but most staying dry. Chilly, with coastal lows in the mid 30s to low 40s and upper 20s to mid 30s inland. Patchy frost and fog possible.
*HIGH WIND WATCH* The National Weather Service has issued a High Wind Watch for the entire Central Coast from Saturday morning to Sunday Night.
Southeast winds 15 to 30 mph with gusts up to 50 possible.
Damaging winds could blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are possible. Travel could be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.
Monitor the latest forecasts and warnings for updates on this situation. Fasten loose objects or shelter objects in a safe location prior to the onset of winds.
Saturday: Increasing clouds with light rain spreading over the area in the afternoon. Highs in the 50s. Rain will become moderate to heavy overnight in the coastal mountains. Gusty winds likely throughout the day, especially along the exposed coast and over the ridgetops.
Extended: Periods of rain, heavy at times on Sunday with showers likely lingering into Monday. Temperatures will be more seasonable. Additional rain chances Wednesday/Thursday.
The outlook from the Climate Prediction Center for December 6th - 12th calls for the likelihood of ABOVE normal temperatures and ABOVE normal precipitation.
El Niño/La Niña STATUS: Neutral
(Winter) Forecast: Neutral
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This week's normal temperatures:
--COASTAL CITIES--
LOW: 44ºF HIGH: 62ºF
--INLAND CITIES--
LOW: 38ºF HIGH: 64ºF