Update: Modesto area could get thunderstorms as Hurricane Hilary pounds other states
Stanislaus County residents should watch for thunderstorms Monday, effects of Hurricane Hilary to the south and east.
The National Weather Service forecast up to 0.2 inches of rain, generally from 2 to 8 p.m. Amounts could be higher in spots hit by thunderstorms.
No rain had fallen as of noon at the downtown gauge of the Modesto Irrigation District. August is usually one of the driest months of the year, with an average of only 0.03 inches.
The expected rain would not be enough to damage Central Valley crops but could have the benefit of clearing dust from the air.
Monday morning was overcast amid the thunderstorm warning. If it does happen, residents should remain in sturdy buildings or enclosed cars.
The area has little risk of the flash flooding that has hit Southern California, its first hurricane in 84 years. Hilary made landfall in Baja California and now threatens Nevada and states to the north.
The Weather Service forecast Modesto highs of 87 on Monday and 89 on Tuesday. Heat more typical of August will return, with mid-90s for two days and around 90 from Friday through the weekend.
This story was originally published August 21, 2023 at 12:52 PM.
