As Sacramento braces for a significant winter storm rolling in, residents can expect to see moderate to heavy rain and snow, along with gusty winds, starting tonight and continuing into Friday. According to an update from the National Weather Service Sacramento, the radar is already picking up the first moisture approaching Northern California with the majority of precipitation anticipated this evening and into early Thursday morning.
For those in the Sierra, be prepared to battle moderate to heavy snowfall. Snow levels are going to start relatively low at 1,500-2,500 feet in Shasta County and Coastal Range areas, but are expected quickly to rise through Thursday. The National Weather Service predicts, "feet of snow expected for the Sierra above 4500 feet and up to a foot for the Northern Shasta County areas above 2000 feet." Some areas in the valley, such as Redding, could also see snow accumulations, but there's a noted high level of uncertainty. Travelers should anticipate slippery roads and potential delays.
Complementing the snow, widespread rainfall is forecast to impact interior Northern California, with a "60-90% probability of 1 inch of rain or more in the Valley," the National Weather Service report states. In the foothills, that probability increases by 2 inches or more. This precipitation could cause slick conditions, increased potential for mud and rock slides, and minor flooding. A Flood Watch has been put into effect to remain vigilant for these conditions.
Gusty southerly winds are also part of the package, sweeping through the region Wednesday night to early Friday, expected strongest on Thursday. The lower elevations could see gusts range from 30 to 50 mph, leading to difficult driving conditions for high-profile vehicles, potential power outages, downed trees or tree branches, and loose objects blowing around. A Wind Advisory is in place to address these concerns. The weekend system appears weaker and more progressive, with a brief respite from the high-impact weather expected by Sunday.
For those hitting the skies, the National Weather Service advises, "VFR conditions expected to prevail through 00z Thursday," when conditions will rapidly shift due to the storm to widespread MVFR and periods of IFR/LIFR. Southerly surface winds could cause additional complications with gusts ranging from 30 to 45 kts after 06z Thursday.
In the end, as the mid-week storm concludes, a transition day on Saturday is forecasted before another mild system brushes the area. By Monday, drier and slightly warmer conditions are predicted to make a return, providing some relief after several days of harsh weather.
