It’s time to get ready for some snow as a much-needed winter storm is on the horizon for the Sierra. The last storm that swept through on Wednesday brought in around 6 to 12 inches across most passes and ski resorts, and it couldn’t have come at a better time with the snowpack sitting at a measly 30 percent of the normal statewide level just a day before.
But hold on tight because there’s a brief break in the storms for Thursday and Friday, offering a break from the wet weather. However, don’t get too comfortable because another storm system is gearing up to hit the region from Saturday to Sunday. In fact, Saturday has already been marked as a First Alert Action Day.
The approaching storm is making its way down from the north and is expected to make its grand entrance on Saturday morning. Rain will be the guest of honor in the low-lying areas, while the northern Sierra will be graced with a generous helping of snow as early as 6 a.m.
Prepare to witness the coldest storm so far this season, with snow levels forecasted to drop to a frosty 1,500-2,500 feet in elevation. With this dip in snow levels, heavy snowfall is on the menu, with as much as 2 inches of snow expected to fall per hour. Combine that with gusty winds up to 55 mph, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for whiteout conditions. Travelers, beware – chain controls and pass closures are on the horizon.
A Winter Storm Warning has been issued, starting from 4 a.m. on Saturday through 6 a.m. on Sunday.
As for the accumulation, prepare for a winter wonderland above 5,000 feet, with up to a foot or more of snowfall expected. And if you’re in areas like Placerville, Grass Valley, and Foresthill, be ready to witness your first snowfall of the season, with a whopping 12 to 24 inches of snow through Sunday morning.
While the focus is primarily on snow impacts, heavy rain is also expected to make an appearance. Most areas in the valley could see up to 0.25 to 0.50 inches of rain, with regions closer to the foothills possibly getting a whole inch.
Once we bid adieu to Sunday, our weather forecast looks much drier, with fog creeping back into some parts of the Valley and the lingering snow showers making their grand exit from the Sierra. So, if you’ve got any outdoor plans in the pipeline for the weekend, Sunday might just be the perfect day to carry them out, with highs hovering in the low 50s.
Looking into next week, Monday kicks off with a chill, boasting lows in the 30s. We’ll enjoy a dry spell through the day, with temperatures matching those of Sunday. Brace yourselves for yet another storm system on Tuesday, promising more valley rain and Sierra snow.
Keep your eyes peeled and your umbrellas at the ready as we keep a close watch on this upcoming storm system and the potential impacts it could bring. Stay tuned with the CBS Sacramento First Alert Weather team for more weather features and updates.
