Sacramento, California – California enters the heart of winter Sunday as the Winter Solstice arrives, marking the shortest day of the year and the beginning of a colder stretch that often brings heightened risks for homes, vehicles, and travel across Northern and Central California—particularly in mountain and foothill communities.
With extended overnight darkness and temperatures dipping toward freezing, residents in areas near the Sierra Nevada, Cascade Range, and surrounding valleys are urged to prepare for common winter hazards, including frozen pipes, icy roadways, and vehicle trouble as December gives way to January. Freeze-thaw cycles are especially common in these regions, where daytime melting can quickly turn to overnight refreezing.
According to the National Weather Service, temperatures across Northern and Central California are expected to fluctuate near or below freezing overnight through the weekend and into early next week, especially at higher elevations and in rural valleys. This pattern increases the risk of frozen or burst pipes, particularly in older homes, cabins, garages, and properties with exposed plumbing.
State and local officials recommend insulating exposed pipes, keeping indoor thermostats set no lower than 55 degrees, and allowing faucets to drip slightly during the coldest nights. Cabinets under sinks along exterior walls should be left open to allow warm air to circulate. Open flames should never be used to thaw pipes; officials say space heaters or hair dryers are safer alternatives when used carefully and monitored at all times.
Drivers planning holiday or early January travel through mountain passes are encouraged to prepare vehicles now by checking battery strength, tire tread, windshield washer fluid rated for freezing temperatures, and carrying emergency kits with blankets, food, water, and phone chargers. Snow, ice, and overnight refreeze conditions can quickly impact travel on higher-elevation roadways.
While much of California experiences milder winters, officials warn that cold snaps in Northern and Central regions—especially near mountainous terrain—remain one of the state’s most persistent winter hazards. Additional advisories may be issued as January approaches and New Year’s travel increases.
