FXUS66 KSTO 222000 AFDSTO Area Forecast Discussion National Weather Service Sacramento CA 100 PM PDT Sun Mar 22 2026 .KEY MESSAGES... - Above normal temperatures continue into the week ahead with widespread Minor HeatRisk - Gusty and drying northerly flow mid to late week, strongest on Thursday && .DISCUSSION... Latest GOES-West visible satellite imagery illustrates some high clouds passing over interior northern California on this Sunday afternoon, with mostly sunny sky conditions. Temperatures are currently trending a few degrees cooler than this time 24 hours ago. Locally breezy northerly flow is being observed in the northern Sacramento Valley and will gradually decrease this afternoon. The upper level pattern will feature high pressure as the primary synoptic feature this week, allowing for continued well above normal temperatures and widespread Minor HeatRisk for the Valley/Delta, foothills and mountains. Another round of increased northerly flow is forecast mid to late week. Strongest winds are currently expected on Thursday. The National Blend of Models (NBM) has increased the wind gust forecast with the latest run, with gusts of 20 to 30 MPH especially in the Valley north and west of Sacramento. Relative humidity will lower on this day as well, down to the teens and 20s. The north wind and anomalous temperatures will continue to accelerate the drying of fuels across the area. Ensemble guidance then indicates the potential for some minor cooling next weekend into the following week with precipitation chances possible, however confidence is low on any details. As high temperatures continue to run 10 to 20 degrees above the late March climatological normal through the week, individuals should practice heat safety. Please be sure to stay hydrated and take breaks from being in the sun during the heat of the day. Always remember to use caution and wear a life jacket near area waterways. && .AVIATION... VFR conditions next 24 hours across interior NorCal. Surface winds below 12 kts at all sites except in the northern Sacramento Valley (RDD and RBL) where northerly wind gusts of 15 to 20 kts continue through around 21Z Sunday before decreasing. && .STO WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES... None. && $$