Sacramento started the morning with fog and low clouds, temperatures around 48°F, and patchy mist in low-lying areas. Rain is expected by the afternoon commute, and the Sierra will see accumulating snow through midweek, making roads wet and travel slower, especially toward the foothills.
Rain Arrives Tuesday Afternoon
Showers are forecast to begin Tuesday afternoon, with a high near 57°F and about a 90% chance of rain after 1 p.m. Valley totals should generally be a few tenths of an inch, though locally higher amounts are possible and some spots could pick up as much as a half inch through the night, according to the National Weather Service Sacramento.
Showers And Isolated Thunder Overnight
Tuesday night will likely feature a period of steady rain followed by a window of showers and isolated thunderstorms between about 1 a.m. and 4 a.m. Brief heavy downpours could cut visibility and leave roads slick. Temperatures in the Valley will stay relatively mild in the low 50s while south-southeast winds pick up, especially in the foothills. If you have late-night or early-morning plans, count on intermittent wet weather and check the latest forecast before you head out.
Mountain Snow And Travel Impacts
A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for the northern Sierra through Wednesday afternoon. Snow levels are expected to hover near 6,000 to 7,000 feet Tuesday, then drop toward about 5,500 feet on Wednesday. Forecasters expect 3 to 6 inches of snow above 5,500 feet, 8 to 12 inches above 6,000 feet, and locally higher totals on the tallest peaks. Drivers should be ready for delays and possible chain controls on I-80 and U.S. 50. For current road conditions and chain-control updates, check Caltrans.
Commute Tips
Use low beams in fog, slow down for standing water, and leave extra space between vehicles; bridges and shaded stretches can stay slick longer than city streets. If you plan to travel into the Sierra, carry chains, allow extra time, and check road and weather reports before you leave. We will post updates if advisories change.
