Northern California is experiencing a rare cold snap as arctic air continues to grip the region. Cities across the Bay Area and Central Valley saw record-setting low temperatures on Friday, prompting a cold-weather advisory in parts of the North Bay.
Record-Breaking Low Temperatures
San Francisco recorded its coldest temperature for this week in 103 years, staying around 50 degrees and breaking the previous 1922 record. Other cities also faced unusually cold days:
- Vacaville reached a high of just 44 degrees, its coldest in four years.
- Sacramento recorded a high of 45 degrees, the lowest since December 2022.
- Marysville saw a high of 43 degrees.
- Oroville faced a frigid day with a high of 22 degrees.
Cold-Weather Advisory in North Bay
The National Weather Service issued a cold-weather advisory from Thursday through 8 a.m. Saturday for eastern Sonoma County and all of Napa County. Temperatures were forecasted between 33-36 degrees, with higher elevations dropping to the upper 20s. Officials warned that the cold is particularly dangerous for people without shelter.
Warmer Weather Ahead
The cold conditions are expected to be temporary. The National Weather Service predicts above-normal temperatures across California next week. South Lake Tahoe may see four straight days of 60-degree or warmer weather from Wednesday through Saturday, which is rare in December. Historically, the area has only recorded five December days above 60 degrees since 1968.
Southern California Outlook
In Southern California, temperatures are expected to rise into the 80s, offering a stark contrast to the chilly Northern California weather.
Impact of Tule Fog
Forecasters are monitoring Tule fog in the Central Valley, which has persisted for several days. If the fog spreads into the Bay Area, it could keep temperatures cooler than current forecasts predict, especially in cities like Antioch, Fairfield, Vacaville, Concord, and Benicia.
Conclusion
Northern California’s cold snap has set new temperature records and created hazardous conditions, particularly for the unsheltered population. While the region endures a few more days of chilly weather, warmer conditions are on the horizon, bringing relief and potential record highs for some areas in the coming week.
