(As the first day of summer approaches, lifeguard Leilani Ortiz (left) teaches Elaina Fontes, 5, the basics of swimming on opening day of the City of Watsonville’s Recreational Swim Program at Watsonville High School. Photo by Tarmo Hannula/Pajaronian)
WATSONVILLE — Summer, which officially started Thursday, will get a kick-start Friday as a high-pressure system builds over the region.
Meteorologist Steve Anderson of the National Weather Service of Monterey said the high pressure will usher in considerably higher temperatures that could edge up to 100 degrees in the Morgan Hill and Gilroy areas. Somewhat cooler temperatures can be expected in coastal regions with highs in the mid-70s Saturday and the lower 80s on Sunday.
“This is pretty much our average spring weather, with the typical clouds along the coast in the morning hours and warmer inland temperatures,” Anderson said. “But things will start to change Friday.”
Anderson attributed the lingering morning fog to the temperature of the ocean, which has been about one degree cooler than the seasonal norm.
“But on the larger scale things are pretty much normal,” Anderson said. “The warmer weather coming Friday won’t stick around too long, however. Temperatures will start cooling down on Monday and will drop a bit more into the week.”
To welcome warmer days, the City of Watsonville launched its annual summer aquatics program earlier this week at the Watsonville High School pool. The program features an open recreation period for all ages as well as a host of swimming instructions classes for tots, children, teens and adults.
Alex Fontes of Watsonville was one of the parents who brought a child to the program Monday.
“This is the first year I have brought my daughter to the program,” Fontes said. “I wanted her to learn about water safety and how to swim. This is also a good way to do something in the community and to connect with others.”
Jessica Mattos, who is entering her ninth year with the program and as the current pool manager, said she was delighted with the turnout Monday.
“There are a lot more people than we expected,” she said. “It’s a good sign. We encourage the public to join up and make sure their children learn about water safety.”
Mattos said all ages are welcome to sign up. The program continues through Aug. 10.
For information, visit www.cityofwatsonville.org/595/Parks-Community-Services.
