Good morning Mid Coast!
As we start our Friday, there are great conditions!
Yesterday, strong Santa Ana winds maintained significant fire concerns. Fortunately, the high pressure fueling this wind event is shifting east today and the winds will calm down quickly.
Air quality on the south coast is affected by smoke from the ongoing mountain fire and the Vandenberg fire.
Temperatures will be slightly below average due to the influx of colder air from inland. Inland valleys, including the Santa Ynez and Southern Salinas River Valleys, and the Cuyama, will see cool lows at night, with temperatures in the low 30s and possibly even into the upper 20s.
This morning frost warnings are in force again due to temperatures around 20 degrees.
Winds are expected to decrease as the Santa Ana pattern diminishes, allowing a slight warming trend to develop by Friday and Saturday. High pressure building over the Pacific Ocean will support this, with clear skies and a small increase in temperatures in coastal areas and valleys. However, indoor areas can remain on the cool side at night due to efficient radiant cooling in dry, calm conditions. Expect daytime temperatures in the 70s, with Saturday being the warmest as offshore winds die down and high pressure remains contained.
Looking into the second half of the weekend and into next week, a cooling trend is expected as a series of weak storm systems move down from the north. The first of these will arrive on Sunday, although models with this system do not suggest much rainfall; instead, it will likely bring cooler temperatures and a chance of gusty winds from the north, especially along the Interstate 5 corridor and in southern Santa Barbara County.
Ensemble models also indicate possible light rain or mountain snow between Veterans Day and Tuesday, with north-facing mountain slopes offering the best chance for moisture. While precipitation is not guaranteed, future forecasts may provide more clarity as details become known. For now, temperatures are likely to turn cooler early next week, with highs returning to seasonal or even slightly below normal as these weak systems work through.
Have a great day Central Coast!