rain returns

Yesterday in Chico was absolutely magnificent weather-wise, with sunny skies and a high temperature of 71 degrees at the Chico State Farm. The visibility was so clear, Mt. Shasta could be seen from over 100 miles away. This gorgeous weather will continue through early next week as a powerful high pressure system resides over California. However, several strong storms will invade by the middle of next week, potentially bringing us some significant precipitation through next weekend. These storms will originate from the mild Pacific waters, so expect high snow levels- generally above 6000 feet. Chico could see 1-3 inches of rain with this series of storms, so fingers crossed that this forecast pans out. Of course, it won't end the drought, or even put a dramatic dent in the drought. Any precipitation we can get is certainly welcome, though. More details on these storms will emerge the closer we get towards the middle of next week. For now, here is what the National Weather Service is saying for Chico the next seven days: Today Sunny, with a high near 70. Light and variable wind becoming west northwest around 6 mph in the afternoon. Tonight Clear, with a low around 40. Light east northeast wind. Sunday Sunny, with a high near 70. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon. Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 43. South southeast wind around 6 mph becoming east northeast in the evening. Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 69. Light and variable wind becoming south southeast around 5 mph in the morning. Monday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 45. Tuesday Mostly cloudy, with a high near 66. Tuesday Night A slight chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 47. Wednesday Rain likely. Cloudy, with a high near 60. Wednesday Night Rain likely. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 45. Thursday A chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 63. Thursday Night A chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 45. Friday Rain likely. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 60.