Sacramento residents may notice a break in the stormy weather today, but according to the National Weather Service (NWS), another cold system is expected to bring rain, snow, and possible travel disruptions. After light showers south of I-80 fade by this morning, the National Weather Service expects a short break today before a colder weather system arrives, with gusty winds, especially in mountain areas.
Tomorrow, a low-pressure system from the Gulf of Alaska will bring more rain, mountain snow, and gusty winds. Snow accumulations are expected to range from 8 to 24 inches above 4000 feet in the Sierra, with up to 3-4 feet at the highest peaks, and 6 to 12 inches in northern Shasta mountains. A 40-70% chance of moderate to major impacts is expected over the Sierra, with snow-covered roads, chain controls, and significant travel delays.
The National Weather Service expects the heaviest precipitation tomorrow, with conditions improving by Friday afternoon. A sharp drop in temperatures is forecast for Saturday morning, with Valley lows near or below freezing. Redding may see lows around 27 degrees, and cold mornings are expected to continue through the weekend and into early next week.
A drier weather trend is expected after the weekend, though breezy northerly winds and cold temperatures will continue. Valley, Delta, and foothill highs will be in the low to mid 50s, and higher elevations will see temperatures ranging from the 40s to low 50s. There is a 40-70% chance of lower elevation temperatures dropping below 30°F from Sunday through Tuesday, with higher probabilities in the Northern Sacramento Valley. The National Weather Service advises locals to get ready for colder temperatures and make sure to protect pets, plants, and people, especially those who are more sensitive to the cold.
For air travel, valley and foothill winds should remain under 12 knots, but gusts of 15 to 20 knots are possible near the northern Sacramento Valley from today until tomorrow. Mountain winds could reach 25 to 35 knots until tomorrow morning. Showers and mountain snow may cause poor visibility in Shasta County, with snow levels between 2000-3000 feet. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for the West Slope Northern Sierra Nevada until 10 AM PST today.
