Dry conditions and summer warmth have lasted pretty far into autumn, but that’s about to change.
An incoming winter storm is set to begin lashing Northern California over the next several hours, adding danger and uncertainty to holiday travel along with much needed precipitation.
Karleisa Rogacheski is a meteorologist with the National Weather Service’s office in Sacramento.
“We’ve got snow currently in the forecast at areas at 2,000 feet and above, we might even see it dip down to 1,500 feet in the northern and eastern side.” Rogacheski said.
Up to two and a half feet of snow is expected at pass levels, with as much as a foot and a half down to 2,000 feet. Many highways may close due to the storm.
As much as four feet are expected on the highest peaks. The storm could interrupt electrical service, down trees and power lines and complicate holiday travel.
“We are expecting significant snow and really windy conditions when this front come through, so travel is expected to be difficult and is highly discouraged." Rogacheski said.
Rain is expected to begin as early as 10 this morning in the coastal range, reach the Valley as soon as midday and begin impacting the Sierra this afternoon or evening.
Heaviest precipitation, including hail and thunderstorms over the valley, should end by midday Wednesday. Showers and snow showers will linger throughout Wednesday and well into Thanksgiving Day in the Sierra.