temps well above average

It was a pleasant 73 degrees in Chico yesterday under partly to mostly cloudy skies. High temperatures will continue to be warmer than average by as much as 10-15 degrees. We should be seeing temperatures this time of year around 66 degrees; instead, we will see highs in the mid to upper 70s. Some warmer spots in the valley could top 80 degrees today and tomorrow! Highs in the mountains will climb into the 50s and lower 60s, aiding the snowmelt. It's rather early for the snowmelt; it doesn't usually occur until April and May. Overnight lows will only be in the mid 40s (normal lows are in the upper 30s for this time of year). No rain or snow is in the forecast the next seven days. The trees continue to leaf out, and the grass on the surrounding foothills is an emerald green. It's very pretty right now in the Northstate. If only we could get more precipitation. Here's Chico's seven day forecast from the National Weather Service: Today Mostly sunny, with a high near 77. North northwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the morning. Tonight Partly cloudy, with a low around 47. Light and variable wind. Thursday Mostly sunny, with a high near 78. Northeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the morning. Thursday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 48. Light and variable wind. Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 78. Northwest wind 6 to 8 mph. Friday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 46. Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 77. Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 45. Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 76. Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 44. Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 76. Monday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 45. Tuesday Partly sunny, with a high near 71.