Right On Track. Wrong On Specifics. Get Out And Play.

Surf started to pick up a bit this morning, with some mid period swell showing on the buoys.  The winds are mostly light and south easterly along Monterey Bay.  West component should remain part of the over all wind pattern, until south winds begin blowing on Sunday.  A few mid period, semi organized swells are scheduled over the next few days beginning Friday morning.  Wave heights should range from chest high in town, to overhead on the open coast.  This looks like a few good days to get out there and get some surf, as by Monday, it will return to victory at sea.  OTOH, if you find a protected zone, swell should continue through the first half of next week.

Another good option over the next few days in MTB.  The trail system is well damp, but not quite soaked. Any rain we get today should not penetrate too deeply, leaving nice tacky trail rising for the next few days. It is lo quite lush and green out there right now, and the creeks and water falls are flowing.  So even if you do not have a bike, it would be a great time for a walk in the woods or a park.  I imagine the Marin headlands would be a good place to hike on Saturday morning, with mountain and ocean views.  But if you are planning to partake, and especially if you live in the north, Saturday morning is you best bet for sun.  By Sunday, most areas will be turning slowly to rain.

Today's storm looks like it is, surprised, surprise, staying a bit north.  That means less water and a greater chance it remains completely dry, across the zone.  Again, greatest chances for rain are in the north.  Snow will most likely remain above 7000 feet, adding some wet spackle to the resorts.  The big lines are finally coming into play.  Only a dusting to a few inches are expected in most areas south of Truckee.  Lassen and Shasta could receive six to eight inches of new snow, with slightly lower freezing levels.  Friday should be partly sunny and 40F+ at 7K.  Monday's system looks a bit stronger, but now Wednesday looks like it may be the storm of the week.  More to come.