Monday evening forecast April 20th
A weak trough brought cloudy skies and mild temperatures for Monday. This will be the coolest work day with much warmer weather anticipated. A ridge of high pressure will develop across southwestern, California with temperatures warming significantly. As temperatures rise conditions will be 10 to 20 degrees above average in the warmest locations. Prompting the first heat wave of the season from Thursday until Sunday.
Tuesday will initiate the warming trend allowing for much more sunshine across the Central and South Coasts. As our region begins to favor a warmer pattern this will cause pressure gradients to tighten and prompt breezy to gusty winds. The strongest northerly winds are expected along the Santa Barbara County south coasts and the Interstate 5 corridor. Daytime highs along the coasts and valleys will warm in the low to mid 70s.
Wednesday will warm significantly as the ridge continues to settle deeper with many areas likely to reach above average temperatures. As strong wind persists this will create clear skies from dawn until dusk. Daytime highs along the coasts and valleys will warm in the upper 70s to low 80s.
Thursday will lead to a clear morning with plenty of sunshine across the coasts and valleys. Winds will continue but will also be much lighter from the initial start of the work week. The dry pattern will keep the area humid and warm. Daytime highs along the coasts and valleys will warm in the low to mid 80s.
Friday and Saturday will bring the warmest conditions to our region. As the ridge of high pressure settles the heat will peak. Temperatures will rise a few degrees and remain well above average. This will be the first heat wave of the season with conditions possibly breaking records. Daytime highs along the coasts and valleys in the mid to upper 80s.