Frost advisory issued for Sacramento by National Weather Service
A frost advisory will take effect early Monday across the Sacramento Valley and surrounding regions as overnight temperatures dip into the mid-30s, the National Weather Service said Sunday.
Forecasters expect lows between 33 and 36 degrees between 1 a.m. and 9 a.m., with frost possible on the southern end of the Sacramento Valley, the northern San Joaquin Valley, the Delta and the Motherlode at elevations below 2,000 feet.
“Cold overnight temperatures will bring concern for sensitive vegetation,” the weather service said in a forecast discussion Sunday afternoon. “Frost formation may be inhibited by northerly flow along and west of Interstate 5, or in areas where fog forms early on in the night.”
The advisory follows a period of unsettled weather, including multiple atmospheric rivers that brought nearly 3 inches of rain to parts of the region. As of Sunday afternoon, skies over Sacramento were clearing after a morning of lingering fog and low clouds.
University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources recommends plants be covered with a blanket, fitted bedsheet or frost cloths. The agency wrote that a cover should be long enough to reach the ground and be “securely fastened” to minimize risk of cold air sneaking inside.
It is also advised plant owners use incandescent miniature lights to warm up the plants. Potted plants should be brought inside. Plastic covers are not recommended for plants, as they trap moisture, the UC organization stated.
The frost advisory includes Sacramento, Marysville, Yuba City, Stockton, Modesto, Fairfield, Oroville, Chico, Jackson and Grass Valley.
Forecasters said dry conditions would persist through midweek, with mostly sunny skies expected Tuesday and Wednesday.
Highs are forecast to reach the low 50s by Tuesday, with nighttime lows ranging from the upper 30s to mid-40s through midweek.
Dense fog could also return overnight into early mornings through Wednesday. The Weather Service advised motorists to slow down and use low beams when driving in fog and to allow extra time during morning commutes.
This story was originally published December 28, 2025 at 1:01 PM.
