Areas of California Facing Tropical Thunderstorm
According to Fox 5, residents in the San Diego region should prepare for overcast conditions today, along with elevated humidity levels, which may include some virga.
Virga is a weather occurrence where rain descends from a cloud but evaporates before it hits the ground, manifesting as streaks or wisps of precipitation disappearing in the air.
Weather analysts predict a chance of isolated showers and thunderstorms over the mountainous regions through Friday, primarily in the afternoons and evenings. This stormy spell may extend into the valleys, with a slight possibility of affecting the coastline as well.
These storms are expected to bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and dry lightning, which can pose a risk of igniting fires.
Dry lightning refers to lightning occurrences where most precipitation evaporates before reaching the earth, creating a serious fire hazard, especially in arid forested areas. Such thunderstorms tend to be more frequent during the summer months.
By Saturday, humidity levels are expected to decrease, although they may return the following weekend, as the region experiences monsoon season through September.
What Safety Measures Should I Take in Case of Dry Lightning?
As previously noted, dry lightning poses a significant fire risk due to the lack of moisture. During any lightning event, it’s crucial to find shelter indoors to reduce the chance of being struck.
According to the National Weather Service, seek refuge in a secure building, ideally one with electricity or plumbing, or in an enclosed metal-topped vehicle with windows closed.
It’s important to remain in a safe shelter for at least 30 minutes after the last sound of thunder.
