As a new storm system gears up to roll through the region starting Wednesday, residents around Sacramento need to brace for a dramatic shift in weather, according to the National Weather Service in Sacramento. The forecast, obtained from the NWS Sacramento CA's area discussion, indicates both moderate to heavy rain and gusty winds are on the menu for Sacramento as of Wednesday, persisting through to early Friday.
The calm before the storm is palpable with early morning Valley temperatures varying from the mid-30s to mid-40s, however, this is set to change once the atmospheric river hits; which is slated to bring copious precipitation starting Wednesday night, where cold air doesn't seem ready to leave without a fight and snow levels in the Sierra anticipated to start between 3500 to 4000 feet before rising significantly through the night. In terms of snow accumulation, the probabilities are concerning, with chances of 6 inches or more along I-5 in Shasta County ranging from 30 to 55%, and a fraught 80 to 100% likelihood of more than 2 feet above 6000 feet, combined with winds of up to 70 mph in the mountains which will undoubtedly complicate travel conditions throughout Thursday, as detailed by NWS.
The NWS warning isn't just about snow and wind though, rain is also going to be a significant factor for those at lower elevations with valley locations looking at a 50 to 80% chance of gaining an inch or more of rainfall over 48 hours and higher percentages for the foothills and Shasta County areas, the last storm has already saturated soils, which means the risk for minor urban and small stream flooding impacts has increased, a situation which calls for heightened caution, especially when driving, or living in flood-prone areas, ready adherence to guidance from local officials is urged.
Looking ahead past this storm the forecast suggests Saturday as a transition day with another, albeit weaker, weather system pushing through Saturday night into Sunday bringing dustings of snow, light rain, and breezy winds, but come Monday when drier and slightly warmer conditions are expected to make a welcome return.
For up-to-the-minute updates on conditions and any impending alerts or watches, stay tuned to the NWS Sacramento's forecast page for the latest information.
