California's Fickle Spring: A Whisper of Summer Before the Week's Wet Return

Ah, Northern California. Just when you thought we might actually skip straight to summer, Mother Nature throws a delightful curveball. This Monday, May 20th, felt like a proper gift, didn't it? Skies were clear, sunshine was abundant, and temperatures — well, they decided to climb, pushing comfortably into the low 80s for many across the Central Valley. Honestly, it was the kind of day that just begs you to step outside, maybe enjoy an early evening on the patio, or perhaps even contemplate an impromptu barbecue. A fleeting taste of what’s to come, perhaps, but a taste nonetheless.

But here’s the thing about California weather, especially in spring: it rarely settles for long. And true to form, this brief flirtation with summer is, shall we say, just that — a flirtation. By Tuesday, a shift begins. That delightful warmth? It’s going to start retreating, ever so gently, as a cooling trend takes hold. You might notice a bit more of a breeze, a subtle hint in the air that things are about to get interesting again. It’s almost as if the atmosphere is clearing its throat, preparing for its next act.

And what an act it promises to be! Come Wednesday, the forecasts are pointing quite definitively towards the return of wet weather. Yes, that's right. Expect to see those rain clouds gathering once more, making their way across our beautiful region. The pitter-patter could begin Wednesday, lingering right through Friday, in some form or another. We’re not talking about a torrential downpour, mind you, or at least not widespread — the current models suggest these will mostly be lighter showers, a gentle soaking rather than a deluge. But rain? Absolutely.

Now, for those up in the Sierra Nevada, a little extra drama might be on the cards. There’s a distinct possibility of some thunderstorms bubbling up, especially as the week progresses. Picture it: the rumble, the flash, the sudden, heavier bursts of rain against the mountain backdrop. Down in the valley, though, don't hold your breath for huge totals. Most areas are looking at less than a quarter-inch of rain, perhaps a smidge more in localized spots, but it’s still enough to dampen the ground, maybe even wash a bit of pollen away, and certainly remind us that spring isn't quite done with its tricks yet. So, yes, enjoy that Monday sunshine, but maybe keep your raincoat handy, just in case. After all, a little planning never hurt anyone, did it?