An "inside slider" trough will push into the Western United States this weekend, causing drier air to push into the area over portions of central California, including the San Joaquin Valley. Strong gusts paired with low Relative Humidity and drying fuels will lead to easier fire starts and potential for rapid spread of new or existing fires.

Strong wind gusts are expected to set up across the Mojave Desert and the Kern River Valley this weekend as an inside slider low pressure system moves through the western US. A Wind Advisory has been issued for the desert areas valid from 5 PM Friday through 11 PM Sunday; a Lake Wind Advisory has been issued for Lake Isabella valid for the same period.

With warmer temperatures expected for this weekend and early next week, remember to be safe around area rivers, streams, and lakes. Warm air temperatures do NOT mean warm water temperatures! Some areas of central California can have a difference of 40 to 50 degrees between the two. It only takes 10 to 15 minutes to lose dexterity in 50 to 60 degree water temperatures.

We are now hiring early-career meteorologists at most offices across the country! Through an improved, streamlined hiring process, eligible candidates will be entered into pools to be continually considered for vacancies. Interested? Here’s what you need to know: ➡️This large hiring push is split between offices in the following three vacancy announcements on USAJobs: ▶️ Possible recruitment incentives: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/867259300 (We are listed as San Joaquin CA) ▶️ Eastern: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/867260400 ▶️ Western: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/867260700 ✅You can apply to each vacancy group ✅You can select up to five locations for each announcement 📋Eligibility is determined through a USA Hires assessment ⏳Closes September 30, 2026 - but apply early to increase your chances!