Long-term calm weather is ahead

A calm weather pattern is expected across the Central Coast over the next few days, characterized by dry conditions, occasional high clouds and warmer temperatures.

• Saturday:
  The ridge flattens slightly, allowing additional high clouds to pass through the region and skies to remain partly cloudy. Despite the cloud cover, temperatures will continue to warm due to weak offshore currents.

  • Winds: Canyon winds will continue overnight into the morning, with local gusts of 35-45 mph in wind-prone areas such as the hills of San Luis Obispo County.
  • Temperatures: High temperatures will peak over the weekend, with temperatures reaching the high 70s in coastal areas and the low 80s in inland valleys. Some locations may experience temperatures 4-10°F above the seasonal average.

• Sunday:
  On Sunday, high clouds will begin to dissipate as the subtropical moisture plume shifts southward. The offshore current will weaken, resulting in slightly cooler temperatures in coastal and valley areas.

  • Temperatures: Expect a drop of 2-4°F compared to Saturday, with highs still above seasonal averages in the mid-70s along the coast and upper 70s inland.

Long term (Monday – Thursday):
The long-term forecast remains in line with the trend towards dry and stable weather. A large amplitude ridge will dominate the western U.S., bringing sunny and warm conditions through at least the end of next week.

• Winds:
  There will continue to be a light offshore current, bringing occasional breezes from the gorge in the morning and evening, but winds are not expected to reach recommended strength.
• Temperatures:
  Daily temperature fluctuations will be minimal, with highs ranging from the low 70s along the coast to the upper 70s or low 80s inland. Nights will remain cool, with lows of 40 to 50 degrees in most areas.
• Cloud cover:
  Clear skies are expected most days, although patchy marine layer clouds may develop over western Santa Barbara County in the morning as offshore flow eases somewhat later in the week.