Hanford, California – Rain is expected to begin Sunday, bringing measurable precipitation and lowering snow levels across Central California.
According to the National Weather Service Hanford office, rainfall will develop Sunday and continue into much of next week. Forecasters say many locations have at least a 50% probability of receiving 0.50 inches or more of rain within a 24-hour period ending Monday afternoon.
Probability maps show widespread 40% to 70% chances of a half-inch of rainfall across the San Joaquin Valley, including areas near Hanford, Fresno, Visalia, and Bakersfield. Mountain communities could see higher precipitation totals.
Snow levels are forecast to begin between 5,000 and 6,000 feet before lowering to 3,000 to 4,000 feet by the middle of the week. That shift could bring accumulating snow to lower-elevation passes if colder air moves in as projected.
Drivers along Interstate 5, Highway 99, Highway 198, and Highway 41 should prepare for wet pavement Sunday into Monday, with potential travel impacts in foothill and mountain areas as snow levels drop.
The storm marks the first significant precipitation event in several weeks for parts of the region. Officials advise residents to monitor updated forecasts, especially those planning travel through higher elevations.
Meteorologists caution that rainfall amounts and snow levels could adjust as the system approaches. Additional updates are expected through the weekend as confidence increases in storm timing and totals.
More detailed briefings are available through the National Weather Service Hanford office.
