Sacramento, California – Drivers across the Sacramento Valley woke up to hazardous conditions Christmas morning as another round of moderate to heavy rain pushed through Northern California, bringing slick roads, gusty winds, and the chance for isolated thunderstorms.
According to the National Weather Service in Sacramento, widespread precipitation moved into the region early Thursday, with pockets of heavier rain embedded within the larger storm system. Radar showed bands of steady rain stretching from the Bay Area through the Sacramento Valley and north into the foothills and coastal ranges, with isolated thunderstorms possible within the heaviest cells.
Rainfall has been ongoing from Santa Rosa and San Francisco north through Chico, Red Bluff, Redding, and west toward Eureka and Fort Bragg. Gusty winds have been observed across much of the region, which may lead to downed tree branches and localized power disruptions, especially where soils are already saturated from previous storms.
Travel impacts are most noticeable during the morning hours, with ponding of water on roadways, reduced visibility, and slippery conditions on major routes including Interstate 5, Highway 99, and connecting valley roads. Foothill and mountain locations continue to see snow at higher elevations, adding to travel concerns east of the valley.
Residents are urged to slow down, increase following distance, and allow extra time for holiday travel. The storm remains active through much of the day, and additional rounds of rain are possible. Forecasters caution that rivers, streams, and low-lying areas should be monitored closely as wet conditions persist across Northern California.
