Brace yourselves, Northern California, as the National Weather Service in Sacramento has predicted an incoming storm that will significantly stir up our usually balmy March weather. Starting Wednesday, we're preparing to face a torrent of heavy precipitation, mountain snow, and gusty winds — hallmarks of an active weather pattern that's predicted to last through the end of the week. According to the National Weather Service, "Dry and seasonable weather with some occasional breezy winds" is currently with us, but this is expected to rapidly shift come mid-week.
Now, while things appear calm with temperatures in the Valley forecasted to hit the mid 60s to low 70s today and tomorrow, we are to see winds gradually pick up. By Tuesday, winds will start to become brisk, and we're advised to seriously prepare for the period stretching into Wednesday. As the low pressure system encroaches, residents in the foothills, mountains, and northern Sacramento Valley are warned to expect gusts "40 mph or higher," and those in the mountains should plan for gusts that could potentially exceed 50 mph.
With snow levels starting around 5,000 to 5,500 feet initially and dropping to 2,500 to 3,000 feet by Thursday morning, the National Weather Service forecasts a "45 to 85% chance of 3 feet or more above 5000 feet," indicating that travelers in the high country should prepare for significant delays and disruption. Moreover, valley dwellers will not be spared, as downpours are expected in the lowlands with a "30 to 65% chance of 1 inch or more of rain in the most of the Valley." Thunderstorms may sporadically light up our skies, with a 10 to 20% likelihood on Wednesday, particularly in the northern reaches of the Sacramento Valley.
As we push through to Thursday, the sodden saga continues. The combination of precipitation and strong winds is expected to persist, and the chance for isolated thunderstorms intensifies just a bit. It seems like clear skies may have to go on a brief hiatus as another wave of moisture is poised to keep us wet through Sunday. While forecasting models exhibit some uncertainty about the strength of this subsequent system, the gist remains that a new, "bigger trough progresses" and our umbrellas are unlikely to get a break.
For those planning to travel by air, you can breathe a small sigh of relief — in the immediate 24 hours at least. "VFR conditions" are expected, as reported by the National Weather Service, though flyers should be aware of potential gusts up to 30 kts in the Sierra through early Monday evening. Keep an eye out for further updates as the week unfurls and this looming weather system makes its grand entrance onto the NorCal stage.
