Weather
Sacramento, CA Weather Alert Oct. 22: Storms, Hail, Snow Possible
Sacramento, CA – Northern California residents face another round of unsettled weather Thursday, October 22, as thunderstorms, heavy showers, gusty winds and high elevation snowfall threaten to create
By Natalie Rhodes · 2026-10-22T14:52:10.634Z
Sacramento, CA – Northern California residents face another round of unsettled weather Thursday, October 22, as thunderstorms, heavy showers, gusty winds and high elevation snowfall threaten to create hazardous travel conditions across the region through Friday morning.
According to the National Weather Service NWS in Sacramento, a weather system moving through interior Northern California will bring light to moderate rainfall, isolated thunderstorms and accumulating snow in portions of the Sierra Nevada.
Thunderstorm chances are highest between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. Thursday , with forecasters estimating a 10% to 20% chance of thunderstorms, particularly across the Sierra foothills and mountain communities.
Potential thunderstorm hazards include lightning, small hail, brief heavy rainfall, gusty winds and brief funnel clouds.
Communities including Sacramento, Chico, Yuba City, Stockton and Modesto are within the broader area where isolated thunderstorms may develop.
Rainfall Could Slow Thursday Commutes
Forecast rainfall totals vary considerably across Northern California. Sacramento and surrounding valley communities could receive approximately 0.10 to 0.25 inches, while portions of the northern Sacramento Valley may see 0.25 to 0.50 inches.
Higher elevations near Blue Canyon could receive 1 to 1.5 inches.
The NWS classifies expected rainfall impacts as minor, although wet pavement and reduced visibility could lead to longer commutes.
Sierra Snow Expected Through Friday Morning
Snow levels are forecast around 8,000 to 9,000 feet, with light accumulations possible above those elevations.
Forecast graphics indicate approximately 3 to 4 inches near Sonora Pass and 2 to 3 inches near Tioga Pass.
Travelers crossing higher mountain routes should prepare for potentially slick roads and minor delays.
The NWS expects precipitation to continue into Friday morning, October 23, before this forecast period ends.
Residents should monitor updated forecasts and road conditions, particularly when traveling through mountain passes or areas experiencing thunderstorms.