Modesto temperatures rise, ever so slowly

MODESTO -- The cold snap the area has been experiencing slowly will start to ease, forecasters say — emphasis on slowly.

A hard freeze warning remains in effect until 9 a.m. this morning, with temperatures dipping into the upper 20s in and around Modesto.

Today is expected to be partly cloudy, with fog early and a high of 48 degrees. It’s expected to drop back below freezing tonight, with lows around 27 degrees.

Tuesday is expected to be a freckle warmer, with highs around 50 and a low of 30, with temperatures creeping up a degree or two each of the following two days. Conditions are expected to be clear or partly cloudy throughout the week.

By Sunday, highs should be close to 60.

Looking out a bit further, forecasters say rain may be making a return to the area early next week.