A major winter storm is poised to bring heavy rain, strong winds, and significant snowfall to California and Nevada beginning Sunday evening, February 15, and lasting through Wednesday evening, February 18. The National Weather Service (NWS) warns of potentially dangerous conditions, particularly in the Sierra Nevada and around Lake Tahoe, with snowfall totals potentially reaching several feet and wind gusts exceeding 100 miles per hour.
The storm is expected to impact Southern California as well, with thunderstorms and hazardous surf conditions anticipated starting Sunday night, followed by another system arriving Tuesday night bringing even colder temperatures. According to the NWS, rain will return to the region via multiple weather systems that “will be wetter than our last storm.”
The most severe impacts are forecast for the Sierra Nevada, where 3 to 5 feet of snow are possible above 6,000 feet, with up to 7 feet on the highest peaks. Elevations as low as 4,000 feet could see 1 to 2 feet of snow, and lighter accumulations are possible as low as 3,000 feet by midweek. Hurricane-force ridge winds are also possible, increasing the risk of drifting snow, falling trees, and extended road closures. Travel could be “very difficult to impossible” in these areas.
Northern California is also bracing for significant snowfall. The NWS Sacramento office issued a winter storm watch for the Northern Sierra, Shasta, Plumas, and Lassen Park areas, predicting 30 to 60 centimeters of snow at lower altitudes and up to 240 centimeters on the highest peaks.
Further south, the Sierra Nevada central and south, including Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon National Parks, are under a winter storm watch. Forecasters predict accumulations of 90 to 150 centimeters between 1,800 and 2,400 meters, with potential for over 210 centimeters in the highest elevations.
Strong winds are expected across much of the state. Gusts could reach 45 mph from Redding down to Fairfield between Monday and Wednesday, potentially causing power outages. A high surf advisory is already in effect along the Central Coast through Saturday morning, with waves of 9 to 13 feet and dangerous rip currents.
The approaching storm is described as the coldest of the season so far. Snow levels are expected to drop to 4,000-5,000 feet on Tuesday, February 17, potentially dusting the Grapevine and parts of the Antelope Valley. On Wednesday, low snow is possible at 2,500 feet.
California’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) has activated contingency plans, including deploying heavy machinery to clear roads and reinforcing electrical crews. The NWS is maintaining close contact with state and local governments to provide updates and recommendations.
The NWS advises against non-essential travel during the storm. For those who must travel, they recommend carrying chains for tires, blankets, water, non-perishable food, flashlights, and spare batteries. The NWS warns that travelers should be prepared to be stranded for several hours.
Residents in mountainous areas are urged to prepare for potential power outages and limited access to services. The accumulation of snow on roofs and roads increases structural and mobility risks.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) notes that heavy snow in the Sierra Nevada is crucial for California’s water supply, as the spring snowmelt replenishes the state’s reservoirs.
As of Friday, February 13, no weather watches or warnings were in effect, but that could change over the weekend. The NWS continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updated information through its website and communication channels.
