Sacramento residents can expect a warm end to the week, with a shift in weather approaching. Rain and thunderstorms are forecast to increase over the weekend. According to the National Weather Service Sacramento, CA, seasonably high temperatures will continue leading into the weekend, with highs reaching the 70s across the Valley and foothills, and possibly the low 80s in the northern parts of the Sacramento Valley.
On Friday, increased cloud cover and a slight decrease in temperatures to the lower 70s are expected. A southern-moving cutoff low is anticipated to prevent any significant disturbances in interior Northern California. However, the National Weather Service reports a 5 to 10 percent chance of an isolated shower or thunderstorm, mainly south of Highway 50. The first wave of weekend precipitation is forecast to begin Saturday night, with rain increasing through Sunday.
The incoming weather system is expected to bring cooler temperatures, with Saturday's highs dropping into the 60s and further decreasing to the 50s to low 60s by Sunday. Breezy conditions are also forecast, with west-southwest winds gusting between 15 to 25 mph. There is a 15 to 25 percent chance of isolated thunderstorms on Sunday afternoon and evening, which may include brief heavy rain, small hail, and gusty winds.
The Sierra and southern Cascade regions are expected to receive mountain snow, with forecasts indicating snow levels on Sunday will initially fall to 4000-5000 feet. There is a 40 to 60 percent chance of more than eight inches of snow. Accumulating snowfall is anticipated above 5000 feet, and the weather service notes potential travel impacts during Sunday commutes. Unsettled weather is expected to continue into early next week, with valley showers and mountain snow possible.
As the week progresses, light precipitation and mountain snow are expected to continue through at least Wednesday. Forecasts suggest a 40 to 70 percent chance of at least six inches of snow in the mountains, indicating a prolonged period of active weather in the region. Precipitation totals in the valley are expected to range from 0.25 to 0.5 inches, while the foothills and higher elevations may receive between 0.5 to 1.5 inches.
