Early March is expected to bring needed rain to Fresno and surrounding communities beginning Saturday night, according to the NWS Hanford forecast.

In addition, the local Sierra is likely to see a dusting of snow at elevations of 6,000 feet and above.

About a quarter-inch of rain is expected in Fresno beginning Saturday night through Monday morning. However, the total could climb if thunderstorms materialize.

But before this next wave of precipitation adds to rain gauges and the snowpack, Valley residents can expect above-normal temperatures again on Friday. The National Weather Service is calling for a high of 75 in Fresno on Friday and 73 on Saturday before the wet cooldown arrives.

Forecast Calls for More Rain Midweek

Looking ahead in the forecast, another dose of rain and snow is possible Wednesday through Friday of next week.

There is “a 45 to 65% chance of at least an inch of rain total to the foothills and a 25 to 55% chance of half inch or more of rain in the Valley. The Sierra have a 35 to 65% chance of 12 inches or more of snow with this third system,” NWS Hanford said in its Thursday morning discussion.

Fresno has received 6.16 inches of rain to date in the water season that began on Oct. 1 of last year. That is 76.3% of normal.