According to the National Weather Service in Sacramento, a new wave of weather is set to bring a mix of Valley rain and mountain snow starting later today and stretching through Thursday. Friday and Saturday offer a short respite before the next round kicks in again on Sunday.
The roads are dry this morning, but expect scattered showers by afternoon. If you're heading into the mountains, be aware of a Winter Weather Advisory for elevations above 5,000 feet from 4 AM Wednesday to 4 PM Thursday.
Rain in the Valley is expected to total 0.25 to 0.75 inches through Thursday, with the lower foothills getting 0.50 to 1.00 inches. Snow north of I-80 will be around 3-6 inches at 5000-6000 feet and 6-12 inches at higher elevations. South of I-80, snow totals could be even higher. "Expect slippery roads and travel delays," the NWS cautioned.
Temperatures are also expected to dip below normal until Thursday. Valley highs are forecast in the upper 50s to low 60s, while higher elevations will be cooler. By Friday, temperatures in the Valley are expected to warm up, with highs reaching the upper 60s.
By Sunday night, preparations should be in place for yet another slew of precipitation. The NWS is tracking a 40-60% chance of an adequate moisture plume sweeping through NorCal. A Snow lovers have a high chance (50-80%) of seeing more than 8 inches in the Sierra, southern Cascades, and Coastal Range. The forecast is uncertain, so stay alert and keep updated on the latest weather.
