Isolated thunderstorms may bring cooler weather to Sacramento area. How likely are they?

UPDATE: How long will dreary weather last in Sacramento? What to know about storms and fire risk

Scattered thunderstorms have a slim chance to pass through Sacramento early Tuesday morning, potentially bringing in cooler weather and minimal rain to the area, according to the National Weather Service.

These isolated thunderstorms are expected to be dry, resulting in lightning and little to no rain to the capital region.

“Unfortunately, we won’t see much, if any, rain with any of the thunderstorms for the lower elevations,” said Cory Mueller, weather service meteorologist.

The most likely time frame for Tuesday’s isolated thunderstorms is anywhere between 4 a.m. to 11 a.m. They have a 10 to 15% chance of hitting the area.

“They’re not very likely, but it’s not zero,” Mueller said.

Wet thunderstorms, which could bring in heavy rain and gusty winds, are predicted in higher elevation areas in Northern California, including the northern Sacramento Valley, foothills and mountains. Chances for these storms will continue until 8 p.m. Tuesday.

Although these predicted storms may not result in significant precipitation for the area, the low pressure system may bring some relief from the July heat.

Forecasts show temperatures will drop to the low to mid 90s on Tuesday and Wednesday, which is around two to degrees below average for this time of year. However, areas north of Sacramento will remain around the same.

“We are going to see a good Delta breeze, especially tomorrow, so Sacramento will be cooler,” Mueller said.

The high isn’t expected to break 96 degrees on Wednesday. Temperatures are expected to climb back up to the upper 90s by the end of this week, with highs reaching up to 98 degrees Thursday.

Oak Fire smoke

Smoke from the Oak Fire, which ignited Friday, have hit parts of Northern California. The fire has been 10% contained, according to a Monday morning update from Cal Fire.

These areas, including the Sierra Nevada and the foothills, may see a “little bit of improvement” later Tuesday, Mueller said. However, southerly winds expected later this week could push the wildfire smoke north.

For the Sacramento area, chances for smoke at the surface are slim.

The weather service advises people, especially sensitive groups, to stay indoors, keep windows closed and use air filters in the case of smoky weather. Hikers near the Sierra mountain should prepare for smoky conditions.

This story was originally published July 25, 2022 at 3:05 PM.