Eureka, Calif. – Drivers in Northern California’s mountain corridors could face dangerous travel conditions within hours as a cold spring storm pushes snow levels down rapidly overnight.
According to the National Weather Service in Eureka, rain will spread across coastal and valley areas Wednesday while heavy snow develops in higher elevations of Del Norte, Humboldt, and Trinity counties. Snow levels will fall from around 5,500 feet during the day to as low as 2,500 to 3,000 feet by Thursday morning.
The heaviest snowfall is expected above 4,000 feet, where 4 to 6 inches could accumulate, including along Highway 3 at Scott Mountain Pass. Travel through this corridor may become very difficult overnight into Thursday morning, with chain controls likely and visibility reduced by blowing snow.
Additional impacts are possible along Highways 36 and 299, where lighter snow could still create slick conditions at higher elevations. Lower elevations, including Eureka and Crescent City, will see steady rain.
Drivers should delay mountain travel if possible, carry chains, and prepare for sudden weather changes. The advisory remains in effect through late Thursday morning, with conditions improving later in the day as the storm moves out.
