Honestly, if you've lived in the East Bay for more than a week, you know the drill. You check the "official" forecast, see a number, and then step outside only to realize you’re wearing the wrong outfit entirely.
The weather in Berkeley California tomorrow, Friday, January 16, 2026, is shaping up to be one of those classic "fooler" days. On paper, it looks like a standard mild winter afternoon. But because of how the Berkeley Hills interact with the air coming off the San Francisco Bay, what you experience at 4th Street is going to be wildly different from what happens up at Lawrence Hall of Science.
Basically, we're looking at a high temperature of 64°F and a low of 47°F. That sounds comfortable. But it's the 53% humidity and the specific way the wind moves that really dictates whether you’re going to be shivering or shedding layers.
Why the Berkeley Forecast Can Be Deceptive
People often see a "sunny" forecast and assume they can leave the house in a t-shirt. Don't do that. Tomorrow will be sunny during the day and clear at night, but that sunshine doesn't always translate to warmth in the shade.
The wind is coming from the northeast at 9 mph. This is actually quite significant. Usually, our breeze comes off the water, bringing that moist, salty air. A northeast wind is a bit drier and can feel sharper, especially in the early morning.
The Breakdown of Your Day
- Morning (7 AM - 10 AM): It’s going to be crisp. Around 7 AM, expect it to be right at that 47°F mark. If you're heading to Northbrae or the Gourmet Ghetto for coffee, that northeast wind will make it feel even cooler.
- Midday (11 AM - 3 PM): This is your window. The temperature will climb steadily toward the 64°F peak. With a UV Index of 2, the sun isn't particularly intense, but in direct light, it’ll feel great.
- Evening (5 PM onwards): As soon as the sun dips, the temperature drops like a stone. By the time you're thinking about dinner, we'll be back into the low 50s.
The Microclimate Factor
You can't talk about the weather in Berkeley California tomorrow without acknowledging the "Hills vs. Flats" divide.
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Down near the water, the humidity stays a bit higher, and the air feels denser. As you move up the elevation toward Grizzly Peak, you often rise above the "marine layer" or any lingering morning haze. Tomorrow, because the sky is predicted to be clear, the hills will actually get hit by the sun first and stay warmer for longer during the day, but they also lose that heat faster at night because there are no clouds to act as a blanket.
Most people get this wrong. They think the hills are always colder because they’re higher. Actually, on a clear January day like tomorrow, the "thermal belt" in the mid-elevations of the Berkeley Hills can be several degrees warmer than the flats at noon.
Managing the Dry Air
With humidity at 53%, it's relatively dry for a coastal city. You might notice your skin feeling a bit tighter or needing an extra glass of water. This lower humidity is why the 0% chance of rain is so certain. There is simply no moisture in the column of air above us to produce even a stray drizzle.
Real-World Planning
If you’re planning a hike in Tilden Park, tomorrow is actually perfect. The ground is likely still holding some moisture from previous weeks, but the air will be clear. Just watch out for the shaded canyons; they will feel like a refrigerator compared to the exposed ridges.
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For those commuting or spending the day on the UC Berkeley campus, the Sproul Plaza area tends to trap heat, while the breezeways near the glade can get surprisingly gusty with that northeast wind.
Actionable Tips for Tomorrow
- The Layering Rule: Wear a base layer that breathes. Add a medium-weight sweater. Carry a wind-resistant shell. You will use all three at different points between 8 AM and 6 PM.
- Sun Protection: A UV Index of 2 is low, but Berkeley’s clear air means you can still get more exposure than you think if you’re out for a long lunch at an outdoor cafe.
- Hydration: Northeast winds are drying. Keep a bottle of water handy, especially if you're walking the uphill blocks.
- Home Prep: Since it'll be a clear night with a low of 47°F, it's a good night to ensure your windows are sealed tight. The dry air will pull heat out of your house faster than a foggy night would.
The weather in Berkeley California tomorrow is a gift for anyone who likes "crisp" weather. It’s a day for clear views of the Golden Gate, sharp shadows on the sidewalk, and that specific Bay Area winter light that makes everything look a bit more vibrant. Just don't let the "high of 64" trick you into leaving your jacket at home.