Sierra Nevada Thunderstorm Possibility

There is a remote threat of thunderstorm activity in the Sierra Nevada from Sunday afternoon through Tuesday evening.

According to the National Weather Service, most of the mountain thunderstorms are expected from Fresno County to Kern County. However, any thunderstorms that do develop locally could produce heavy rain and gusty winds along with frequent dangerous lightning and hail. Runoff from thunderstorms could cause flash flooding downstream of the storms location. Lightning can strike several miles from the storm cell.

Additionally, The Tuolumne County Air Pollution Control District has issued an Air Quality Alert in Tuolumne County due to smoke impacts from the Rim Fire.

This Air Quality Alert is in effect until 12 PM on Friday.

Most mountain and foothill communities in Tuolumne County and portions of Yosemite National Park are expected to be impacted by smoke.

Exposure to particle pollution can cause serious health problems, aggravate lung disease, cause asthma attacks and acute bronchitis and increase risk of respiratory infections.

Residents are advised to use caution as conditions warrant. People with heart or lung diseases should follow their doctors advice for dealing with episodes of unhealthy air quality.

Older adults and children should avoid prolonged exposure, strenuous activities or heavy exertion as conditions dictate.

For more information, call the Tuolumne County Air District at 209-533-5693.