Erica Hoyt
As seen in:
MSN,
Yahoo Life,
Yahoo News,
Yahoo Finance,
Yahoo,
KSBW-TV (Salinas, CA),
Cronkite News,
Yuma Sun,
East Valley Tribune,
Ahwatukee Foothills News
and
Is this you? As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.
Claim your profile
Articles by Erica Hoyt
Temperatures plunged as rain chances increase this week
SALINAS, Calif. - We are transitioning away from the unusually warm conditions that dominated the weekend. A push of cooler air is moving into the region, bringing temperatures closer to seasonal averages and setting the stage for a much cooler stretch of weather. The difference will be especially noticeable in areas that experienced near-record highs just a day earlier. Instead of the summerlike warmth, residents can expect cooler afternoons and a more seasonable feel as the week gets underway.
Near-record heat gives way to cooler weather and possible midweek rain
SALINAS, Calif. - The Central Coast experienced another round of unusually warm temperatures Saturday, with some communities approaching record territory and Watsonville setting a new temperature record. But the summerlike warmth is not expected to last much longer, as a changing weather pattern will bring a significant cooldown, possible midweek rain, and continued hazardous beach conditions.
Warm days ahead, cooler weather and rain possible Next Week
SALINAS, Calif. - The Central Coast is in for a stretch of sunshine and warmer temperatures before a noticeable cooldown arrives early next week. We're also watching offshore winds that could elevate fire danger, along with a chance of rain Monday evening into Tuesday. We're continuing to lose about two minutes of daylight each day as we move deeper into October. That means earlier sunsets and shorter afternoons, even as temperatures briefly climb over the next couple of days.
Coastal hazards continue as warmer weather arrives late week
SALINAS, Calif. - Coastal hazards remain a concern along the Central Coast as cooler-than-average temperatures continue through Tuesday. While conditions stay relatively quiet inland, dangerous beach conditions and coastal flooding are expected to persist into the early part of the week. The National Weather Service is warning of coastal flooding during high tides through Tuesday, along with hazardous beach conditions through Monday evening.
Cooler weather, coastal hazards in effect
SALINAS, Calif. - A sharp drop in temperatures is expected across the Central Coast this weekend and into early next week as a weather system moves into Northern California, while coastal flooding, dangerous beach conditions and a small chance of rain remain in the forecast. Cooler-than-normal temperatures through Monday, with highs generally in the low 60s along the coast and the 60s to low 70s in inland valleys.
Heat Advisory continues through Wednesday as cooler pattern arrives later this week
SALINAS, Calif. - A prolonged stretch of unusually warm weather will continue across the Central Coast through the middle of the week, with a Heat Advisory now remaining in effect through Wednesday evening. Temperatures are running well above average thanks to a strong ridge of high pressure parked over the West.
Heat intensifies across Central Coast as heat stretches into Wednesday
SALINAS, Calif. - The Central Coast is feeling the heat, and the prolonged stretch of hot weather is only beginning. Saturday was an Impact Day across the Central Coast as temperatures surged well above normal, with some locations heating up dramatically within just a few hours. In Salinas, offshore winds helped temperatures climb by roughly 30 degrees in only four hours Saturday morning, turning a cool start into a much hotter afternoon.
Hotter days ahead as ridge of high pressure strengthens
SALINAS, Calif. - A strong ridge of high pressure is keeping our weather pattern warm to hot, and that trend is expected to continue through the weekend. Temperatures will climb further Saturday and Sunday, especially away from the coast. Inland communities could see afternoon highs in the mid-90s to around 100 degrees, with the hottest locations potentially pushing a little higher.
Warmer days ahead as winds increase
SALINAS, Calif. - The Central Coast is heading into a gradual warming trend over the next several days, with the biggest changes expected inland while coastal communities remain noticeably cooler. A look toward the Pacific shows Hurricane Polo and Tropical Storm Rachel, but neither system is expected to directly impact our local weather. Instead, the larger-scale pattern over California will be driven by a cutoff low moving east and an area of high pressure building in behind it.
Temperatures set to climb after a cool weekend
SALINAS, Calif. - If you've been enjoying the cooler weather this weekend, soak it in because the Central Coast is about to start warming up. We're dealing with a pretty active weather pattern in the eastern Pacific right now. Hurricane Polo continues to churn offshore, and a new Tropical Storm Rachel has formed in roughly the same general area where Polo developed.
Cooler weather settles in before midweek warm-up
SALINAS, Calif. - The Central Coast is in for a cooler-than-average weekend, with coastal clouds, a chance for some overnight drizzle, and warmer weather returning by the middle of next week. A developing low-pressure system moving toward California is bringing cooler and more moist conditions to the region. For the Central Coast, temperatures will remain noticeably cooler Sunday, with coastal communities staying in the 60s.
Clouds give way to a warm Fall week
SALINAS, Calif. - A cloudy and cooler Sunday across the Central Coast is setting the stage for a noticeable warm-up as we head into the first full week of fall. The clouds today are tied to an upper-level low spinning offshore. That system has helped deepen the marine layer while also pulling additional moisture into the region, creating the widespread high clouds we saw throughout the day.
A fall temperature swing
SALINAS, Calif. - After a warmer Saturday, Sunday will turn cooler as a weak disturbance moves in from the Pacific. That system will also help deepen the marine layer, meaning low clouds could become more widespread along the coast and into some coastal valleys. A few areas near the coast and windward slopes could even see some light morning drizzle on Monday, although rainfall amounts would be minimal. Another change will be noticeable in the sky tomorrow.
Windy Sunday gives way to brief warm-up before midweek cool down
SALINAS, Calif. - It was another windy day across the Central Coast on Sunday, with breezy onshore winds continuing through the afternoon. Gusts were strongest in the usual wind-prone locations, with some areas seeing gusts between 20 and 35 mph and locally stronger winds. For most of the region, the drier air behind a recent cold front will keep skies relatively clear tonight. Some patchy low clouds could still develop right along the coastline, but widespread inland cloud cover is not expected.
Sunday brings stronger winds, mild temperatures across the region
SALINAS, Calif. - After a relatively quiet start to Sunday, winds will pick up through the afternoon across the Monterey Bay region, with the strongest gusts expected along the coast and in other typically wind-prone locations. A Gale Warning and Small Craft Advisory remain in effect for Monterey Bay through 9 p.m. Sunday, as breezy onshore winds create hazardous conditions for boaters. Mariners should be prepared for stronger winds and choppy waters, particularly during the afternoon and evening.
Breezy Weekend ahead as temperatures stay near average
SALINAS, Calif. - Strong winds are continuing to impact the Central Coast this weekend as a cutoff low-pressure system moves through the region, bringing breezy onshore winds and cooler conditions to parts of the area. Saturday afternoon, we saw wind gusts of 20 to 40 mph. The strongest winds will be most noticeable along the coast and the Salinas Valley. Despite the gusty conditions, temperatures will remain close to seasonal averages.
Heat fades, winds rise as seasonable weather returns
SALINAS, Calif. - It's been quite the weather roller coaster across the Central Coast this week. We started with a Beach Hazards Statement, reminding coastal residents and visitors that the ocean can quickly turn dangerous. Then, temperatures surged enough to bring a Heat Advisory. Now, we're seeing a major change in the weather pattern as temperatures settle back toward more typical September levels. For the weekend, the big story will be the wind.
Heat builds across the Central Coast, impact day set for Wednesday and Thursday
After a noticeable warm-up today, the heat will continue to build across the region, with the most significant impacts expected Wednesday and Thursday. Temperatures climbed roughly 5 to 10 degrees compared to Sunday, marking the beginning of a warming and drying trend. While today's heat is manageable, temperatures will continue rising through Tuesday before peaking during the middle of the week.
Heat builds across the Central Coast, Impact Day set for Wednesday and Thursday
SALINAS, Calif. - After a noticeable warm-up today, the heat will continue to build across the region, with the most significant impacts expected Wednesday and Thursday. Temperatures climbed roughly 5 to 10 degrees compared to Sunday, marking the beginning of a warming and drying trend. While today's heat is manageable, temperatures will continue rising through Tuesday before peaking during the middle of the week. We have designated Wednesday and Thursday as Impact Days due to the expected heat.
Sunny Sunday gives way to a major warm-up across the Central Coast
SALINAS, Calif. - The Central Coast started Labor Day weekend with plenty of sunshine and clear skies after the marine layer had a difficult time developing overnight. A Beach Hazards Statement remains in effect through Monday evening for Pacific Coast beaches. A long-period swell generated by distant Hurricane Marie is expected to continue pushing larger waves toward the coastline.
Dangerous waves, summer-like warmth ahead
SALINAS, Calif. - A Beach Hazards Statement remains in effect through Monday evening as long-period swells from Hurricane Marie continue to reach the coast. Marie is currently a Category 1 hurricane, and its distant swell is contributing to dangerous surf conditions, including stronger rip currents and the potential for sneaker waves. Some breaking waves could reach around 10 feet.
Sunshine this Weekend, but beachgoers face dangerous conditions
SALINAS, Calif. - If you're making plans for the Labor Day weekend, the forecast is looking mostly sunny across much of the region, but don't let the blue skies fool you if you're heading to the coast. A Beach Hazards Statement is in effect through Labor Day for the Pacific Coast, with long-period swells arriving from distant Hurricanes Karina and Marie. Those swells will increase the risk for sneaker waves and strong rip currents, with breaking waves potentially reaching around 10 feet.
Cooler weather continues, but winds remain a concern for Big Sur fires
SALINAS, Calif. - A noticeable change in the weather pattern is taking shape across the Central Coast, with cooler temperatures, higher humidity and increasing cloud cover expected through the end of the week. One of the biggest concerns remains air quality in South Monterey County, where smoke from the Timber and Plaskett fires is contributing to unhealthy conditions in some areas.
Big Sur fires see improving weather conditions
Cooler temperatures and improving relative humidity are providing some relief for firefighters, though elevated winds remain a concern across the fire area.
Cooler weather settles in as coastal drizzle returns Monday morning
Cooler-than-average temperatures will continue into Tuesday, while coastal communities could see a round of morning drizzle as the marine layer deepens.
Beautiful Saturday on the Central Coast, cooler weather ahead
SALINAS, Calif. - It was hard to ask for better weather across the Central Coast today. Sunshine dominated the afternoon, temperatures were comfortable, and overall conditions made for a picture-perfect late-August day. But changes are already underway tonight. The marine layer is expected to deepen, bringing a better chance for low clouds and fog to return along the coast and push into some nearby valleys overnight.
Red Flag Warning, Storm chances and cooler weather ahead
SALINAS, Calif. - A noticeable change in the weather is on the way for the Central Coast, with Friday declared an Impact Day due to a combination of fire weather concerns and a chance for thunderstorms. A Red Flag Warning takes effect Friday morning and continues through the afternoon across much of the Central Coast, including the Santa Cruz Mountains. Dry fuels, gusty winds and the possibility of lightning will create an elevated fire danger, particularly in areas above 1,000 feet.
Warmer weather ahead
SALINAS, Calif. - Smoke and haze from the Timber Fire will continue to be part of the weather picture, with conditions varying depending on winds and location. The National Weather Service has issued a Marine Weather Statement for Point Pinos down Highway 1 and says smoke could reduce visibility overnight as the marine inversion settles in. Some locations along the coast could see visibility drop to around two miles before conditions gradually improve Tuesday morning.
Warm Sunday and smoky skies across the Central Coast
SALINAS, Calif. - It was another warm day across the Central Coast, with many communities climbing into the mid 70s to upper 90s. Inland locations were the hottest, while Monterey stayed cooler thanks to patchy stratus clouds. The smoke from the Timber Fire near Big Sur also made for a striking start to the day. The upper-level smoke filtered the sunlight and produced beautiful colors during sunrise, including a memorable view from Palo Escrito.
More sunshine and warm temperatures this weekend
SALINAS, Calif. - A ridge of high pressure over the Southwest is bringing more sunshine to the region this weekend, with warmer temperatures expected inland. We saw more sunshine today as the marine layer remained compressed and low clouds were less widespread than in recent days. Inland communities warmed into the 80s and low 90s, with even warmer temperatures in Southern Monterey County.
Warm Wednesday before a cooler weekend
SALINAS, Calif. - The marine layer is making an appearance across the Central Coast this morning, but it won't stick around for long. Skies near the coast and in some inland valleys should clear through the late morning as the marine layer retreats toward the coast. Temperatures today will run near to slightly above average for most locations, with only a modest warmup expected in lower elevations.
Marine layer brings misty start, gradual warming ahead
SALINAS, Calif. - A beautiful sunrise greeted early risers Tuesday morning, including a stunning view from Palo Escrito in Soledad. But beneath those colorful skies, the marine layer was making its presence felt across parts of the region. Low clouds, mist and reduced visibility were reported in several locations this morning, with some areas dipping below five miles of visibility.
Marine layer holds on as a gradual warming and drying trend develops
SALINAS, Calif. - A widespread marine layer greeted the Monterey Peninsula this morning, with high-level clouds adding another layer to the sky. While the clouds have kept temperatures on the cooler side, conditions are expected to gradually shift toward a warmer and drier pattern over the next couple of days.
Clouds hold over monterey peninsula as gradual warming faces uncertainty
SALINAS, Calif. - A mostly cloudy stretch is expected to continue across the Monterey Peninsula and surrounding areas this week, with high clouds increasing as moisture moves overhead and the marine layer remains a persistent influence along the coast. For residents along the immediate coast, the marine layer will remain a major factor. Low clouds and fog are expected to push inland again Sunday evening and overnight, with a similar pattern likely Monday.
Cool coast, smoky skies as car week wraps up
SALINAS, Calif. - The final day of Monterey Car Week is here, and the weather is keeping things cool along the coast. A deep marine layer is once again covering much of the Monterey Bay region this morning. The low clouds have mixed with smoke drifting from the Timber Fire near Big Sur, creating hazy and smoky conditions in parts of the area. Air quality has reached very unhealthy in the area as well.
cool conditions settle over the peninsula
SALINAS, Calif. - Coastal clouds are pushing inland this evening, bringing another round of gray skies to Salinas and nearby coastal communities. A few areas along the coast could also see mist or light drizzle tonight. Temperatures will cool into the 50s and lower 60s overnight, making for a chilly evening near the water. On the Monterey Peninsula, the weather will be an important part of tonight's Car Week events.
Tracking fires and higher evening tides
SALINAS, Calif. - Hot and dry conditions continue across the Central Coast Sunday, with several weather concerns impacting the region. The Heat Advisory remains in effect through 10 p.m. tonight for much of the Central Coast. The heat is also adding to elevated fire weather concerns in higher terrain, as the Bryson and Timber fires continue to burn in Monterey County.
Heat Advisory meets coastal fog and flooding concerns
A heat advisory remains in effect through Sunday evening for much of the inland Central Coast, including the Santa Cruz Mountains and areas around King City, as temperatures climb above average. The hottest locations could reach the mid-90s to around 105 degrees Sunday afternoon, with the greatest heat impacts expected farther inland and in higher elevations. Overnight temperatures will also remain unusually warm in some of the hills, while coastal communities stay considerably cooler.
High pressure keeps inland temperatures elevated
SALINAS, Calif. - A dangerous stretch of summer heat continues across California, with both Heat Advisories and Extreme Heat Warnings in effect for portions of the state. While the Central Coast is avoiding the worst of the triple-digit temperatures, inland communities are still feeling significant heat.
High pressure brings above average temperatures and increased fire danger
SALINAS, Calif. - A persistent ridge of high pressure centered over the Desert Southwest continues to dominate California's weather pattern, bringing well above-average temperatures to inland communities. Residents spending extended time outdoors should stay hydrated, take frequent breaks, and avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day.
Inland heat and fire concerns continue
SALINAS, Calif. - After starting the day with areas of low clouds and fog, the marine layer wasted little time clearing away along the Central Coast. Sunshine returned by late morning for most beach communities, while inland locations heated up quickly under a strong ridge of high pressure. Beach Hazards Statement has expired this afternoon and if you're heading to the beach this weekend, remember that even with sunshine, the ocean remains dangerous.
Warm weekend ahead as beach hazards continue and inland heat builds
SALINAS, Calif. - A warming trend is settling in this weekend as a strengthening area of high pressure takes control of the weather pattern. Temperatures will climb a few degrees each day through the weekend, with the hottest inland communities reaching the upper 90s to low 100s by Sunday and early next week. While the coast stays much cooler, inland residents should be prepared for increasing heat, especially during the afternoon hours.
Beach hazards continue through Wednesday; gradual warming midweek
SALINAS, Calif. - Beachgoers are urged to use extra caution through Wednesday as hazardous surf conditions continue, bringing an elevated risk of sneaker waves and dangerous rip currents. The combination of persistent onshore winds and ocean conditions will keep beaches hazardous over the next several days. Sneaker waves can surge much farther up the shoreline than expected, knocking people off their feet or sweeping them into the Pacific.
Beach Hazard Statement extended through Wednesday for Central Coast beaches
SALINAS, Calif. - A Beach Hazard Statement has been extended through Wednesday afternoon for Central Coast beaches as long-period swells from Hurricane Fausto, combined with additional swell energy from Tropical Storm Genevieve, continue to create hazardous ocean conditions. The long-period southerly swell can generate dangerous sneaker waves and powerful rip currents, even when the ocean appears relatively calm.
Tropical Storm Elida bringing more clouds and cooler temperatures tomorrow
Tropical Storm Elida bringing more clouds and cooler temperatures tomorrow Clouds from Tropical Storm Elida and a persistent marine layer will keep the Central Coast cooler than normal through the first half of the week. SALINAS, Calif. - The Central Coast will stay on the cool side to start the week as moisture from Tropical Storm Elida spreads mid- and high-level clouds across the region. While Elida remains well offshore, its tropical moisture is helping increase cloud cover overhead.
Tropical moisture from Elidia bringing clouds and muggy conditions
SALINAS, Calif. - While Tropical Storm Elidia will remain well offshore and never directly impact California, its remnants will still play a role in our weather during the first half of the week. As Elidia tracks north over the eastern Pacific and gradually weakens, moisture circulating around the system will spread northward along the West Coast. That plume of tropical moisture will bring an increase in mid- and high-level clouds across the Central Coast, along with a noticeable rise in humidity.
Heat Advisory continues as triple-digit temperatures grip inland communities
The hottest weather of the week peaked today across inland communities, with afternoon highs climbing into the upper 90s and low 100s.
Radar showing rain, but most isn't reaching the ground; heat and coastal flooding concerns continue
If you've checked the radar this afternoon, you've probably noticed pockets of rain developing across the Central Coast. While the radar is detecting precipitation both offshore and inland, much of it is evaporating before it reaches the ground, a phenomenon known as virga.A few isolated thunderstorms have developed over the coastal waters, but most inland locations have remained dry despite the radar echoes.
Showers showing up on radar, but most rain isn't reaching the ground
If you've noticed showers showing up on radar, you may have wondered why many neighborhoods haven't seen any measurable rainfall. The answer is virga: rain that falls from clouds but evaporates before reaching the ground because of the dry air below.A plume of monsoonal moisture continues to move over the Central Coast and Bay Area, producing plenty of mid and high-level clouds along with occasional radar returns.
Storm chances, minor coastal flooding, and warmer weather ahead
The weather pattern will become more active through early next week as monsoonal moisture moves into the region, bringing the chance for isolated thunderstorms, minor coastal flooding, and warmer temperatures inland.A Coastal Flood Advisory begins tonight as high tides could cause up to two feet higher than normal in the most vulnerable low-lying areas near beaches, bays, and tidal waterways.
Show More
loading
Actions
Is this you?
As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.Get in touch with Erica
Contact Erica, search articles and posts on X, monitor coverage, and track replies from one place.
Learn more about Muck Rack