Sacramento, CA – A powerful weather system is expected to bring significant rain and snow to Northern California starting Tuesday evening. Residents along major routes like I-5 and Highway 50 should prepare for challenging travel conditions, including slick roads and possible chain controls in mountainous regions.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the rain will begin Tuesday night and intensify through Wednesday and Thursday. Areas in the Central Valley could see up to 4 inches of rain, while mountainous regions above 4,500 feet may accumulate as much as 18 inches of snow by Friday morning. Strong winds, gusting up to 50 mph, could also create additional hazards.
The most severe impacts are expected in the Sierra Nevadas, where winter storm warnings are in effect. Travel delays and closures are likely, especially near Donner Pass and other high-elevation corridors. In the valley, ponding on roadways and minor flooding are possible, particularly in low-lying areas. Commuters are advised to leave extra time for travel and avoid unnecessary trips.
The storm will taper off by Friday evening, but additional showers may persist into the weekend. Overnight temperatures are forecast to remain cold, with frost possible in some areas.
Five-day forecast:
• Tuesday: Cloudy, high 56°F, showers late.
• Wednesday: Rain, high 53°F. Heavy snow in higher elevations.
• Thursday: Showers, high 61°F. Snow levels rising.
• Friday: Rain and possible thunderstorms, high 59°F.
• Saturday: Mostly cloudy, high 60°F.
