Stormy weather has lingered in the Sacramento area, bringing a mix of rain and mountain snow showers. The Winter Weather Advisory is in effect through the afternoon, with up to a quarter inch of rain in the foothills and the potential for an additional four inches or more of mountain snow. According to the National Weather Service, Sacramento, CA, temperatures are also cooling down, dropping 2 to 10 degrees from yesterday's high.
As we look forward to the weekend, the forecast suggests a return to dry and warmer conditions starting Friday, with Valley high temperatures climbing gradually from the mid-60s to the low 70s by Sunday. The weather is calm for now, but next week is expected to bring more active conditions, including rain, wind, and mountain snow in Northern California. The current system is already causing gusty winds, with valley winds reaching 15-20 mph and mountain winds up to 20-30 mph starting Friday.
Extended forecasts from Monday through Thursday signal high confidence in a series of weather systems slated to make their impact felt once more. "Ensemble guidance and cluster analysis show high confidence in a weather pattern returning to the forecast over the extended forecast period," per the National Weather Service.
The National Blend of Models (NBM) indicates strong probabilities for significant precipitation and wind. Prospects for heavy rain range from 55-95% for over an inch, while the possibility for more than two inches creeps up notably in the foothills between 50-80%. Mountainous regions brace for the heft of the snowfall with a 55-95% chance for more than 36 inches and 50-90% for surpassing 48 inches. The lower elevations aren't spared, either, with wind gust probabilities hitting 30-70% for over 50 mph and a staggering 45-75% for winds over 65 mph in the mountains.
The NWS advises travelers and residents to keep an eye out for updates as forecasts refine, "Stay tuned for more information as we get closer and plan ahead for wet, cool and windy weather!" Aviation-wise, expect predominantly VFR conditions with localized MVFR in showers, wind speeds are forecasted to remain gentle tonight before picking up tomorrow.
