You’ve probably seen those generic weather apps telling you it’s just another "sunny day in California." Honestly, if you're living in or visiting Valley Springs, you know that’s basically a lie. It's currently 57°F and mostly sunny today, Saturday, January 17, 2026, but that doesn't tell the whole story.
Valley Springs sits in that weird, beautiful transition zone where the Central Valley starts to ripple into the Sierra Nevada foothills. Because of that, the valley springs weather forecast often feels like a guessing game between two different worlds.
The Reality of the Foothill Microclimate
The current setup is classic for mid-January. We have a west wind blowing at a gentle 3 mph. It feels crisp. The humidity is sitting at a bone-dry 18%, which is why that 57°F feels a bit sharper on your skin than the number suggests.
If you're planning your day, don't let the "mostly sunny" label fool you into leaving your jacket at home. The high today is expected to hit 60°F, which is actually quite pleasant for a winter afternoon in Calaveras County. However, the forecast for the rest of the day shows increasing cloud cover. By tonight, we’re looking at a low of 39°F.
That’s a 21-degree swing.
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In the foothills, when the sun goes behind a hill or a thick bank of clouds, the temperature doesn't just "dip"—it drops like a stone.
Today's Vital Stats at a Glance:
- Condition: Mostly sunny now, turning cloudy.
- Current Temp: 57°F.
- Daytime High: 60°F.
- Overnight Low: 39°F.
- Wind: West at 3 mph.
- UV Index: 2 (Low).
- Rain Chance: 10% (basically a non-event, but keep an eye on the sky).
Why This Forecast Matters for Your Weekend
If you’re heading out to New Hogan Lake or just doing some yard work, the conditions are nearly perfect. A UV index of 2 means you won't fry, but the high humidity in the daily forecast (peaking around 46% for the overall day) suggests the air will feel heavier as those clouds move in.
Interestingly, while the chance of rain is officially listed at 10%, locals know that January in Valley Springs is often the gateway for atmospheric rivers. We saw a massive one hit Northern California earlier this month, bringing heavy rain and mountain snow to the surrounding areas. For now, the "valley springs weather forecast" is giving us a breather.
But it’s a quiet breather.
The clouds mentioned in the daily forecast aren't just for show. They represent a shift in the regional moisture. While we aren't expecting a washout today, that "cloudy" designation for both day and night indicates a stable layer of insulation that might keep the morning frost at bay tomorrow.
Navigating the "Valley Springs" Confusion
One thing that trips up everyone—from tourists to seasoned commuters—is the location name. When searching for the valley springs weather forecast, make sure you aren't looking at "Bear Valley Springs."
They sound similar. They aren't.
Bear Valley Springs is way south in Kern County and is currently much colder. Our Valley Springs is right here in Calaveras, serving as the "Three-Cent-Piece" of the mother lode. Our weather is influenced by the proximity to the Delta, which often pulls in that "Delta Breeze" or, during winter, holds onto the Tule fog.
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Today, the visibility is clear, and the wind is minimal. It’s the kind of day where the oak trees look like they’re posing for a painting.
Practical Next Steps
Don't just look at the high of 60°F and think "t-shirt weather."
- Layer up: Wear a light base layer that you can shed by 2:00 PM when the sun is at its peak.
- Hydrate: With humidity at 18% right now, you’re losing moisture faster than you realize.
- Plan for early darkness: Sunset is early this time of year, and once it’s gone, that 39°F low starts creeping in fast.
The weather is holding steady for now, but in the foothills, "steady" is always a temporary state. Enjoy the dry air and the 60-degree peak while it lasts.