Tropical Storm Mario sparks increased fire risk and thunderstorms in Bay Area

The Bay Area is currently experiencing unseasonably hot weather, marking the third consecutive day of elevated temperatures that have raised concerns about fire weather. The region is facing above-normal temperatures due to a ridge of high pressure moving over Northern California. This hot spell is expected to continue, with inland areas hitting temperatures in the mid-80s to upper 90s while coastal regions remain slightly cooler in the 70s to low 80s. As temperatures rise, the National Weather Service has indicated that moisture from Tropical Storm Mario off the coast of Mexico is set to move into Northern California, which will result in increased chances of showers and isolated thunderstorms. This moisture influx is especially concerning because it may lead to dry lightning, which poses a significant risk of sparking wildfires in already dry regions. The NWS highlighted that the highest potential for dry lightning strikes will occur after midnight early Thursday through late Thursday morning, particularly affecting the Central Coast region and higher terrain areas of the Bay Area. By Friday afternoon, the arrival of wetting rains is expected to significantly reduce fire threats over the weekend, bringing drier and more stable conditions. Residents are advised to remain vigilant for fire weather advisories as the weekend approaches, but reports indicate that confidence in the forecast pattern beyond the weekend remains low. Overall, while moisture from the storm could alleviate some fire risks, the immediate concern lies in the potential for thunderstorms and lightning in the dry conditions leading up to this relief.