Residents of the Sacramento Valley should prepare for a cold weather system moving through the area today. This system will bring rain, mountain snow, and gusty southerly winds. Colder temperatures will follow, lasting into early next week.
As reported by the National Weather Service, the Sacramento Valley has a 60 to 90% chance of receiving more than 0.50 inches of rain, while lighter rainfall is expected in the San Joaquin Valley. Mountain regions could see 8 to 18 inches of snow, with up to 3 feet possible at the highest peaks. Road conditions are expected to worsen quickly, and travelers should be cautious. A Wind Advisory will take effect from 4 PM today until 1 AM tomorrow, with gusts reaching up to 40 mph.
Snow levels will range between 2000 and 3000 feet, rising in the evening and falling again by early morning tomorrow. Areas like Shasta County and the Coastal Range will be affected. A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for the Shasta County mountains and Coastal Range above 3000 feet until 4 AM tomorrow, and for the Sierra above 5000 feet from 10 AM today until tomorrow noon.
There is also a chance of isolated afternoon and evening thunderstorms, with up to a 20% chance of occurrence. After the storm, cold temperatures will return, with lows in the 30s in the Valley and foothills, and single digits to teens in mountain areas.
Aviation conditions will be poor, with expected MVFR/IFR conditions and possible localized LIFR conditions due to heavy rain and thunderstorms. Pilots and travelers should stay informed about changing conditions.
