Weather
Sierra Nevada, CA Snow Advisory: 12 Inches Oct. 31–Nov. 1
Sacramento, CA – Drivers planning to cross Northern California's Sierra Nevada this Halloween weekend could encounter slippery highways and accumulating snow, with up to 12 inches forecast on the high
By Sophie Caldwell · 2026-10-30T03:39:10.519Z
Sacramento, CA – Drivers planning to cross Northern California's Sierra Nevada this Halloween weekend could encounter slippery highways and accumulating snow, with up to 12 inches forecast on the highest mountain peaks between Saturday, October 31, and Sunday, November 1.
According to the National Weather Service in Sacramento, a Winter Weather Advisory has been issued for the northern Sierra above 7,000 feet, including mountainous areas along Interstate 80 and Highway 50.
The advisory begins at 8 a.m. PDT Saturday and continues until 7 a.m. PST Sunday, accounting for the overnight transition from daylight saving time.
Forecasters expect snowfall accumulations of up to 8 inches above 7,000 feet, with isolated totals reaching 12 inches at the highest elevations. Minor accumulations of up to 2 inches are also possible as low as 6,000 feet.
The affected region includes higher elevations of the Sierra Nevada across Placer, El Dorado, Amador, Calaveras and Tuolumne counties.
Locations identified in the advisory include Donner Peak, Kingvale, Blue Canyon, Carson Pass, Arnold and Twain Harte, although snowfall amounts will vary significantly by elevation.
Snow levels are initially expected between 7,000 and 8,000 feet Saturday before dropping to approximately 6,000 to 7,000 feet Saturday night into Sunday.
The heaviest snowfall is forecast from Saturday evening into Sunday, potentially affecting motorists traveling through mountain passes during the overnight hours.
The National Weather Service warns that roads could become slippery, particularly at higher elevations.
Drivers should monitor Caltrans QuickMap for current highway conditions, possible chain controls and travel restrictions before departing.
Pedestrians should also watch for icy sidewalks, stairs and driveways where temperatures and snowfall create slippery surfaces.
Travelers crossing the Sierra this weekend are encouraged to allow extra time and use caution.