Honestly, if you stepped outside in Redding this morning expecting that biting Northern California January chill, you probably ended up shedding your coat by noon. It’s one of those weird, beautiful anomalies that makes living in the North State a total trip.
While the rest of the country is digging out of snowdrifts or hiding under grey, gloomy skies, redding ca weather today is basically showing off. We aren’t just talking "nice for winter" here. We’re talking a high of 76°F. That is a massive 20 degrees above what we usually see this time of year. Usually, we’re lucky to hit 56°F.
The Numbers Behind Today's Heat
The current conditions are kind of wild. Right now, it’s a crisp 70°F outside. The air is super dry, with humidity sitting at a low 22%. It feels more like a late May afternoon than the middle of January.
The wind is coming out of the north at 11 mph, which is typical for our valley. That north wind usually acts like a giant hair dryer, compressing the air as it drops down from the mountains and heating it up. That's why it feels so much warmer than it should.
- Today's Peak: 76°F
- Tonight's Low: 47°F
- Sky Status: Pure sun. Not a cloud in sight.
- Rain Chance: 0%. Don't even bother looking for your umbrella.
Why the AQI is the Real Story
There’s always a catch, right? With these stagnant, warm winter days, the air quality can get a little funky. While the sky looks blue and perfect, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Redding is currently hovering in the moderate to poor range depending on where you are.
Some sensors near the Health Department have been pinging around 127 to 132 AQI. That’s "unhealthy for sensitive groups." Basically, if you have asthma or get winded easily, maybe don't go for a heavy run along the Sacramento River trail this afternoon. The lack of rain and the warm air trap those tiny particles (PM2.5) right near the ground. It’s the classic valley inversion.
What to Actually Do With Your Day
Since it's basically "fake spring," you've gotta take advantage of it before the next storm cycle rolls through.
- Hit the Sundial Bridge: It’s 76 degrees. You won’t be sweating through your shirt like in July, but you’ll actually be able to enjoy the walk without shivering.
- Wash the Car: Honestly, with zero rain in the forecast today, it’s the perfect time to get the road grime off.
- Check the Garden: This warm spike might trick some of your plants into thinking it’s time to wake up. Keep an eye on those buds; if we get a snap freeze next week (which is likely), you’ll need to cover them.
Looking Toward the Weekend
Don't get too used to the t-shirt weather. While redding ca weather today is a total outlier, the forecasts suggest things will start turning "chilly" again by the 18th. We're in a weird pocket of high pressure that is keeping the Pacific storms at bay, but that window is closing.
Historically, January is our wettest month. We usually see over 6 inches of rain. So far? This year is trending much drier and warmer. The Old Farmer’s Almanac actually predicted this—calling for a "warmer and drier than normal" winter for the Pacific Southwest. Seems like they nailed it.
Actionable Advice for Redding Locals
If you're heading out, dress in layers. A 30-degree swing between the afternoon high and the evening low is no joke. You’ll want a light jacket by 6:00 PM when that 47°F low starts creeping in. Also, keep an eye on the AQI if you're planning outdoor workouts. If the haze looks thick toward the South Cow Creek area, maybe hit the gym instead.
👉 See also: Victoria's Secret 5th Avenue New York NY: What the Flagship Looks Like Now
Enjoy the sun while it’s here. In a city where it hits 115°F in the summer, a 76-degree day in January is the ultimate consolation prize for living in the valley.