Raining on the heat parade

Rumbling thunder, dark clouds and a chance of rain are forecast through the weekend, a stark contrast to the record heat that stifled the area just a few days ago.

Temperatures will remain in the upper 80s to low 90s, but there will also be a 20% chance of rain today until Sunday, according to the National Weather Service. The threat of lightning has put fire watchers on high alert given the tinder-dry conditions in the foothills.

The weather system is expected to clear out by Sunday, when clear skies will take over with temperatures in the mid-80s, according to the weather agency.

Temperatures are forecast to remain mild, and perhaps even drop to the upper 70s early next week.