After a winter of erratic weather alternating between gusty breezes and heavy storms, this week signified the first signs of summer. Last weekend marked the first time the temperature has broken the 80 degree mark this year, noticeably early for Amador to start experiencing summer weather. Rainfall for the area is up from last year, but this season's total is well below the average. Nevertheless, officials had there doubts until recently that snowpack levels were high enough to properly fill Northern California’s Reservoirs. Along with the early onset of heat is an early fire season. Citizens are advised to pay special attention when starting controlled burns on their property.