Weather Over California Wildfires: Rain, Wind, Lightning, Even Sierra Nevada Snow

Nick Wiltgen
Published: September 14,2015
Weather conditions are changing significantly this week as firefighters continue to battle several large and destructive wildfires in California.
(MORE: Thousands Flee as Homes Burn)
Cooler weather is coming in early this week with welcome rainfall, but also unwelcome shifting winds and the risk of lightning strikes. Later in the week, hotter weather is forecast to make a comeback.
We've assembled a series of continually updating maps to bring you a detailed look at how weather is impacting the firefight now and the next several days.
First, the current radar and lightning data, showing where precipitation is falling.

Current Radar and Lightning Strikes

Meteorologists also look at wind speeds and relative humidity. Dry air and windy conditions are an ideal environment for the uncontrollable spread of wildfires. Light winds and humid air can help firefighters gain the upper hand against existing fires.

Current Conditions

Here's the three-day forecast for the Valley Fire, Butte Fire and Rough Fire. The shading on the map reflects highs for the third day of the forecast period.

Three-Day Forecast Highs

How much rain is in the forecast? The map below shows our forecast. Bear in mind that for large fires, small amounts of rain may not have much impact.

Rainfall Forecast

Believe it or not, there's a little bit of snow in the forecast this week in the Sierra Nevada, not too far from the Butte and Rough fires. However, the snow will mostly be confined to elevations above 8,000 feet, and is unlikely to have any impact on the wildfire areas.

Snowfall Forecast

Stay with The Weather Channel and weather.com for the latest on the wildfires in California.
MORE: Valley and Butte Wildfires, 2015 (PHOTOS)