Sacramento, California – Drivers over Donner Pass and along Interstate 80 could face chain controls before 8 a.m. Thursday as a series of Pacific systems pushes into Northern California, bringing fresh Sierra snowfall and steady valley rain through early next week.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, Northern California sits in a 50 to 60 percent above-normal precipitation zone through Tuesday. That elevated signal reflects an active Pacific storm track aimed at the region, while the 8-to-14-day temperature outlook favors below-normal readings from the Oregon border south through the Central Valley.
In Sacramento, where average highs this time of year sit in the low 60s, temperatures may trend several degrees cooler during passing systems, with highs in the mid to upper 50s. Rain could create ponding along I-5 and Highway 50 during heavier bursts. In the Sierra Nevada, including Truckee and South Lake Tahoe, accumulating snow may impact travel on I-80, U.S. 50 and Highway 89, especially overnight when road temperatures drop quickly.
Farther north in Redding and along I-5 near Mount Shasta, periodic rain and higher-elevation snow remain likely as each system moves inland. Gusty winds may accompany stronger fronts, reducing visibility in open terrain.
Residents should prepare for travel delays through mountain passes, secure loose outdoor items and monitor Caltrans updates for road restrictions. The active pattern holds into early next week, and additional winter weather advisories remain possible. Winter is far from finished across Northern California as February comes to a close.
