The National Weather Service in Sacramento has issued a slew of warnings as a strong atmospheric river prepares to batter interior NorCal, bringing a mix of moderate to heavy rain, mountain snow, isolated thunderstorms, and gusty southerly winds that are expected to last through the weekend and into early next week.
Given the intensity of the oncoming weather, communities around the region are ready for flooding, travel difficulties, and power outages in the aftermath of severe winds.
According to the NWS prediction, a Winter Storm Warning will be in effect from 4 p.m. today until 4 p.m. Tuesday for altitudes above 6000 feet along the Sierra and Southern Cascades, including key thoroughfares such as Interstate 80 and Highway 50.
This powerful system is expected to produce not only waves of heavy snowfall but also large accumulations of up to 5 feet on the highest summits. It is also anticipated to drastically reduce snow levels by early next week, creating potentially hazardous travel conditions in the mountains.
Along with the snow, a Flood Watch is in effect until late tonight for various Valley areas and foothills, particularly north of Interstate 80 and below 3000 feet, due to the risk of heavy runoff, which could result in fast-rising rivers and creeks.
Furthermore, southerly winds have gusted 30 to 40 mph across the northeastern Sierra foothills and central Sacramento Valley, prompting a Wind Advisory until 10 a.m. today. Winds are expected to lessen gradually throughout the day, but gusts may remain in some areas of the region.
The relentless deluge also increases the potential of flooding across the Valley floor into early next week, with 1.50 to 4 inches of rain expected, with the Northern Sacramento Valley receiving the most. According to the National Weather Service, “there is a 50-80% chance of totals more than 3″ from now until Monday afternoon.”
There’s also a minor risk of thunderstorms today, particularly in the Northern Sacramento Valley and the eastern areas of the Valley north of Interstate 80. As the stormy weather continues into next week, travelers with imminent travel plans are advised to remain careful and informed of changing conditions.
A small relief may be on the horizon in the middle of next week, as the forecast suggests drier conditions leading up to Thanksgiving. Travelers and residents should continue to closely watch updates, and anybody planning a trip during the holiday should check road conditions at quickmap.dot.ca.gov before leaving.
