Fire Season & Dry Lightning Threat This Weekend – Lingering into Monday
Key Questions
What fire restrictions are currently in effect?
Level 2 fire restrictions are active at McLaughlin Eastshore State Park and Mission Peak Regional Preserve amid red flag warnings and active fire season. PG&E has also implemented PSPS outages in affected areas.
What is the status of the Putah Fire?
The Putah Fire near Winters has burned 860 acres and reached 20% containment. Firefighters report no overnight movement on another early-season wildfire in unincorporated Contra Costa County.
When and where are dry thunderstorms most likely?
Monsoon-driven dry thunderstorms may occur late Sunday into Monday with highest risk in the Santa Cruz Mountains, South Bay/East Bay hills, and Diablo Range. The National Weather Service indicates a 10-20% lightning chance, gusty winds, and little rain.
What should hikers do during this period?
Hikers are advised to avoid exposed ridges, monitor changing conditions, and stay alert for heat risks after two deaths occurred on the Stebbins Cold Canyon trail. Lingering thunderstorm potential continues into Monday.
How will the weather change by Tuesday?
Tuesday is forecast to be the coolest day with highs in the 60s to 70s after muggy conditions and any remaining storm activity on Monday.
Fire season active with red flag warnings, Level 2 fire restrictions at McLaughlin Eastshore State Park and Mission Peak Regional Preserve. PG&E PSPS outages occurred. Putah Fire near Winters (860 acres, 20% containment). Two hiker deaths on Stebbins Cold Canyon trail due to heat. Monsoon-driven dry thunderstorms possible late Sunday into Monday (July 12-13) with highest risk in Santa Cruz Mountains, South Bay/East Bay hills, and Diablo Range. NWS warning credible; 10-20% lightning chance, gusty winds, little rain. Lingering dry thunderstorm potential into Monday. Tuesday is the coolest day (60s-70s). Hikers should avoid exposed ridges and monitor conditions. FireSat satellites launched. New: First big wildfire scare of the season near Mount Diablo – 51 acres, 30% containment, no forward progress overnight, evacuation warnings lifted. Hikers advised to avoid Mount Diablo area.