Weather Forecast: Rain and Mild Temperatures Expected Through Thanksgiving

A cold front has brought significant rainfall to the Central Coast, with continued rain expected through Thanksgiving Day. Weather forecasts predict strong winds and potential total rainfall of up to 3.0 inches, alongside mild temperatures. A shift to clear skies is anticipated post-Thanksgiving, leading into a pleasant weekend.

A significant cold front that traversed the Central Coast over the weekend has resulted in about half an inch of rainfall in the Santa Maria area, with predictions indicating continued rain through Thanksgiving Day, as per the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. As of Monday morning, three-day rain totals reported included 0.39 inches at the Los Alamos Fire Station, 0.56 inches at the Orcutt county fire station, and additional measurements from other local sites.

The weather forecast indicates the presence of a blocking high-pressure system over the Gulf of Alaska, combined with two low-pressure systems approaching Central California, as detailed by meteorologist John Lindsey. The initial storm event is expected to deliver strong southerly winds ranging from 25 to 38 mph from Monday evening into Tuesday morning. Following this period, winds will diminish, transitioning to scattered showers continuing through Tuesday night, with total rainfall predictions between 0.5 and 1.25 inches.

On Wednesday, a warm occluded front is anticipated to be dominant in the region, producing moderate westerly winds accompanied by lighter rain and heavy drizzle, with expected rainfall between 0.30 and 0.50 inches. Thanksgiving Day will witness the arrival of a second low-pressure system, which will likely bring moderate winds and additional rainfall, forecasted to be between 0.50 and 1.00 inches. In total, cumulative rainfall over the period from Monday afternoon to Thursday could reach 1.5 to 3.0 inches, with potential for even higher amounts in elevated regions due to orographic lift.

Mild temperatures are projected to persist throughout this period, with inland valleys and coastal areas experiencing nighttime lows in the 40s and daytime highs ranging from the upper 50s to low 60s. Following this rain-laden stretch, clear skies and Santa Lucia winds are anticipated by Friday, paving the way for a pleasant weekend with mild temperatures.

Continued rain is expected through Monday night in the Santa Maria region with a low temperature around 50 degrees. Tuesday will see similarly mild conditions, maintaining rain chances through the night, while Wednesday could harbor a 40 percent likelihood of rain, mainly before 10 a.m. Thanksgiving Day may present a slight chance of showers, maintaining a mostly cloudy ambiance throughout the day.

This report addresses the weather conditions resulting from a recent cold front that has impacted the Central Coast. It emphasizes the rainfall accumulations and forecasts for the upcoming days, particularly in relation to Thanksgiving festivities. The article draws on expert meteorological insights to explain the dynamics of the identified weather systems, providing a comprehensive outlook for both rainfall patterns and temperature expectations leading into the holiday weekend.

In summary, the Central Coast is set to experience significant rainfall and mild temperatures leading up to and through Thanksgiving Day. The forecast suggests a series of weather systems, with total precipitation potentially reaching as much as 3.0 inches in some areas. Residents can anticipate strong winds initially, followed by a transition to scattered showers and milder conditions during the holiday period. Clear skies are expected to return by the weekend, providing a reprieve from the rain.

Original Source: santamariatimes.com