turning wetter and cooler

Yesterday was another in a recent string of days with sunshine and warm temperatures. The high yesterday in Chico was a pleasant 75 degrees. The normal high for March 21st is 67. While we enjoy these wonderfully warm and sunny days, the drought becomes worse. We may see a little bit of relief next week as a trough of low pressure digs in, giving us cooler and showery weather. Highs in the mid 70s today, tomorrow and Monday will give way to cooler 60s for highs Tuesday through next Friday, along with a chance of showers. Right now it doesn't look like much, and we here in Chico may get a quarter to a half an inch of rain. That's not nearly enough to alleviate the intense drought, and California could see water shortages and intense wildfires this summer. But, I'm trying to maintain a positive outlook: Some climatologists and weather forecasters are hinting at a strong El Nino next winter, which could bring California out of its current drought situation. We shall see. For now, enjoy our lovely spring weather! Here's Chico's seven day forecast from the National Weather Service: Today Sunny, with a high near 74. West northwest wind 6 to 8 mph. Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 44. West northwest wind around 6 mph becoming light and variable in the evening. Sunday Sunny, with a high near 75. East northeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the morning. Sunday Night Clear, with a low around 45. West wind around 5 mph becoming northeast in the evening. Monday Sunny, with a high near 76. Light and variable wind becoming south 5 to 7 mph in the afternoon. Monday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 47. Tuesday A 50 percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 65. Tuesday Night Showers likely. Cloudy, with a low around 48. Wednesday A chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 64. Wednesday Night A chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 46. Thursday A slight chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 67. Thursday Night A slight chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 47. Friday A slight chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 69.