Winter Storm Hits Northern California: Up to 15 Inches of Snow Expected
Two Northern California counties expect up to 15 inches of snow through Friday. A winter storm is hitting the area hard. Up to 6 inches had already fallen by Thursday morning in parts of the Sacramento region. Forecasts say an additional 15 inches could accumulate in the next 36 hours.
The winter weather advisory warns of snow above 5,500 feet. Areas may see snow accumulations of 4 to 10 inches, with higher amounts of 12 to 15 inches on peaks. Winds could gust up to 35 mph.
Lower elevation areas may experience rain from the same storm. The winter weather advisory includes the west slope of the northern Sierra Nevada, western Plumas County, and western Lassen County. The advisory is in effect until 10 p.m. local time on Friday.
Mountain passes in the Sierra Nevada could see up to 10 inches of snow. This snowfall might make travel hazardous, especially during Thursday evening and Friday morning commutes. Travelers should prepare for slick roads, chain controls, and delays. Gusty winds could also bring down tree branches.
Snow levels will drop to 4,500 feet by Thursday night. The heaviest snowfall is expected overnight into Friday morning.
What should residents do to prepare for winter storms in Northern California?
Interview with Dr. Emily Carter, Meteorologist at the National Weather Service
News Directory 3: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Carter. Can you give us an overview of the winter storm currently impacting Northern California?
Dr. Emily Carter: Absolutely, and thank you for having me. We are experiencing a significant winter storm that is predicted to last through Friday. As of Thursday morning, some areas in the Sacramento region have already received about 6 inches of snow. The forecast indicates an additional accumulation of up to 15 inches could fall within the next 36 hours, particularly in the higher elevations.
News Directory 3: What specific areas are under winter weather advisories, and what are the expected impacts?
Dr. Emily Carter: The winter weather advisory encompasses the west slope of the northern Sierra Nevada, western Plumas County, and western Lassen County, remaining in effect until 10 p.m. local time on Friday. Areas above 5,500 feet are likely to see snow accumulations ranging from 4 to 10 inches, with potential peaks reaching 15 inches. The combination of snow and winds gusting up to 35 mph can create hazardous travel conditions.
News Directory 3: Speaking of travel, what should residents be aware of if they are planning to drive through the Sierra Nevada?
Dr. Emily Carter: Travelers should be prepared for slick roads and possible chain controls, especially during Thursday evening and Friday morning, as the snow will make conditions very challenging. Mountain passes could see accumulations of up to 10 inches, which could lead to delays and very difficult traveling conditions. It’s advisable to plan ahead and check road conditions before heading out.
News Directory 3: How are lower elevations expected to be affected by this storm?
Dr. Emily Carter: In the lower elevation areas, precipitation is expected to be primarily rain from the same system. However, as snow levels drop to around 4,500 feet Thursday night, some regions, particularly in the Hanford forecast area, might receive additional snow—up to 11 inches—making travel difficult. In San Diego, there is also a possibility of up to 4 inches in higher elevations.
News Directory 3: What can we expect as the storm progresses into the weekend?
Dr. Emily Carter: Friday will likely feature the best chance for snow showers, with light snow potentially lingering into Saturday. By Sunday evening, we may see some rain transitioning back to snow in mountain passes like Stevens and Snoqualmie, as another system approaches. It’s worth noting that this storm is following a similar pattern from last weekend, emphasizing the persistent winter weather in the region.
News Directory 3: Thank you, Dr. Carter, for your insights on the upcoming winter storm and its impacts.
Dr. Emily Carter: You’re welcome! Stay safe out there, everyone.
In the Hanford forecast region, higher elevations may receive an additional 11 inches of snow, making travel “very difficult to impossible.” In San Diego, up to 4 inches of snow is possible in some high-elevation areas.
Forecasters expect the best chance for snow showers on Friday, with light snow lingering into Saturday. Travel conditions may include some rain transitioning back to snow by Sunday evening in areas like Stevens and Snoqualmie Passes.
The storm follows a similar one that affected the same area last weekend.