For Sacramento and the surrounding areas, Christmas Eve is expected to see a winter storm that will bring heavy rain, snow, and strong winds to Northern California. The National Weather Service in Sacramento is forecasting widespread rain, mountain snow, and gusty south winds through tonight as the storm moves through, with the unsettled weather continuing into the weekend. The impacts on travel may range from minor to moderate during the holiday season.
Early risers may notice that the storm system has already reached the far northwestern California coast and will continue to spread throughout the day. This system is expected to be colder and wetter than the previous weekend's, with the potential for isolated thunderstorms, especially this morning north of I-80, with a 10-20% chance of occurrence. Residents should prepare for brief heavy rain showers, lightning, gusty winds, and possible hail. A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. for the Northern Sierra and Southern Cascades, according to the National Weather Service.
Rainfall today through tonight is expected to range from 0.25 to 0.75 inches in the Valley, with up to 2.5 inches possible near the Feather River Valley area. High-elevation areas north of I-80 may experience the heaviest precipitation late this morning into the early afternoon. Snow is forecast to begin in the Cascades this morning and move into the Sierra as the day progresses. Snow levels, initially between 5000 and 6000 feet, are expected to lower to 4000 to 5000 feet by tonight, with accumulations of 5 to 10 inches above 6000 feet. Winds may gust up to 45 MPH.
Dry conditions are expected by Christmas morning, but this will be brief as the next wave of inclement weather is forecast to begin Wednesday night and continue through Friday afternoon. This system may resemble today’s, with significant precipitation expected over Shasta County and the potential for snow impacts above 5500 feet. By Friday evening, snow levels are expected to rise to between 7000 and 8500 feet, which could reduce snowfall amounts and shift the impacts toward rain as the weekend begins. Travelers should monitor weather developments, with ongoing updates from the National Weather Service to help manage any potential disruptions.
Looking ahead to the weekend, models indicate the potential for overrunning precipitation from I-80 northward starting Saturday, with the main system expected to move through on Sunday. Snow levels are projected to start high and then decrease to 4000-5500 feet by Sunday night. Windy conditions are also anticipated alongside the precipitation. Early next week, models show some divergence, introducing uncertainty into the forecast. The National Weather Service advises residents and travelers to monitor the latest weather forecasts and road conditions as the situation progresses.
