Sacramento, CA – A fresh round of mountain snowfall is set to blanket portions of Northern California through Friday evening, potentially snarling travel in the Sierra Nevada region.
According to the National Weather Service in Sacramento, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect from 11 a.m. Thursday until 5 p.m. Friday for areas above 5,500 feet, including Chester, Blue Canyon, and Quincy. Forecasters expect 6 to 11 inches of snow to accumulate, with moderate snowfall likely to impact the West Slope Northern Sierra Nevada and Western Plumas County, including Lassen Park.
Travelers should anticipate slippery roads and potential chain controls on key mountain routes. The Thursday evening and Friday morning commutes are likely to be affected by hazardous conditions, especially across mountain passes such as Interstate 80 and Highway 50.
Caltrans advises checking road conditions at quickmap.dot.ca.gov or by calling 511 before traveling.
Drivers should slow down, maintain extra distance between vehicles, and carry snow chains. Delays and detours remain possible throughout the advisory period. This snowfall comes during a transitional period for the Sierra, where late-season storms often cause abrupt shifts in road and trail accessibility.
Motorists, especially those traveling to higher elevations, should prepare for rapidly changing conditions and limited visibility.
