Sacramento, California – Drivers heading into the Sierra within the next few hours face near-whiteout conditions, chain controls, and possible road closures as heavy snow intensifies through 10 p.m. Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service in Sacramento, the heaviest precipitation arrives late Wednesday and continues into Thursday, with snow levels between 1,500 and 2,500 feet — dropping as low as 1,000 feet at times in the Sierra and below 1,000 feet in Shasta County. Wind gusts of 45 to 55 mph will combine with snowfall rates heavy enough to sharply reduce visibility.
Forecasters expect 1 to 2 feet of snow between 2,500 and 3,500 feet and 4 to 8 feet above 3,500 feet. Areas along Interstate 80 over Donner Pass, Highway 50 over Echo Summit, and Highway 88 could see prolonged chain controls and temporary shutdowns. Caltrans is urging motorists to check QuickMap before departure and avoid non-essential mountain travel.
In the Valley, including Sacramento, Stockton and Modesto, periods of rain will create slick roads and slower commutes through Thursday, with isolated thunderstorms possible.
The most dangerous travel conditions remain in the mountains through Thursday night. Additional advisories or extended warnings may be issued as the storm evolves.
