Pattern Change and Precipitation for Wildfire Stricken California (Credit: Meteorologist Jessica Olsen)

Image Courtesy: GOES-NOAA

DISCUSSION: A pattern change is on the way this week after experiencing warmer than average temperatures coupled with windier conditions making containment for fires in Northern California difficult. This change will be apparent in the latter part of the week as several factors come together bringing cooler temperatures and some precipitation to the forecast.
 
Wednesday evening will be the start of this pattern change as a cold front drops from the Pacific Northwest. This frontal boundary will bring cooler temperatures to the region and will push precipitation into the area. With some onshore flow, likely precipitation and snow in higher elevations should be evident. Chances for rain increase Wednesday night into Thursday and Friday. Models are indicating amounts ranging from a tenth of an inch to quarter of an inch in much needed areas affected by the Pocket, Tubbs, Nuns, Patrick, and Atlas fires. For areas south of San Francisco, light rain is expected, virga is also being seen on the radar as of early Wednesday. Onshore flow will bring stratus and increase cloudiness throughout Thursday. By Friday warming is expected to reappear in addition to dry conditions as a ridge makes its way into the area.
 
For more localized forecasts and changes visit the Global Weather and Climate Center!
 
© Meteorologist Jessica Olsen