The Sacramento region braces for a potent storm as the National Weather Service advises residents to prepare for a deluge of rain, snow, and gusty winds through the weekend. The storm, attributed to a strong atmospheric river, is anticipated to cause significant disruptions, with the NWS issuing a series of warnings and watches across Northern California.
As per the NWS, a Winter Storm Warning holds until 10 PM today for higher elevations, specifically above 3500 feet in the Sierra and southern Cascades, including Interstate 80, and above 3000 feet in the Shasta County mountains. A Flood Watch is also in place, extending through to early Saturday for Valley and foothills locations north of Interstate 80. The wind will also challenge travelers and locals alike with a Wind Advisory effective until this evening for the Northern and Central Sacramento Valley and nearby foothills areas.
Radar data indicates that precipitation has already begun, drenching the Coastal Range and spilling into the northern reaches of the Sacramento Valley. Accumulations have been variable but are increasing, and commuter traffic may be impacted by water ponding on roads and hazardous travel conditions, as reported by the NWS. Heavier rainfall is expected Friday morning, with less intense precipitation continuing into Saturday.
Forecasters predict this first wave of the storm could usher in 7 to 13 inches of precipitation at high elevations, with a 40% to 95% chance of exceeding 3 inches in certain areas. Snow levels, which start around 3500 to 4500 feet this morning, will fluctuate through the week, potentially impacting travel across the Shasta County mountains and the Sierras. Expected snowfall may range from 10 to 20 inches at elevations above 4500 feet, with local peaks potentially seeing upwards of 2 to 4 feet of snow.
Looking ahead into next week, ensemble guidance suggests that the atmospheric conditions will not let up, with more rain and snow coloring the outlook. According to the National Blend of Models, there's a 30-60% chance of precipitation of 1 inch or more in the Valley through Tuesday. Mountain residents could see continued snowfall, with probabilities of 12 inches or greater hovering between 55% and 85%. Travelers are urged to monitor updates at the NWS website and road conditions through Caltrans before venturing out.
For air travel, periods of MVFR/IFR conditions with LIFR in the mountains are expected due to the incoming storm system; gusty southerly winds are forecast, potentially causing further disruptions in flight itineraries. The aviation impacts, along with potential low-level wind shear, may affect flights at RDD and RBL throughout the storm's progression.
