Sacramento, CA – A significant winter storm is set to impact Northern California this weekend, bringing heavy snowfall, powerful winds, and hazardous travel conditions to higher elevations.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), a Winter Storm Warning is in effect for multiple regions. The storm will begin Saturday morning and last through Monday night, affecting areas above 4,000 feet in Shasta County and 5,000 feet in the Sierra Nevada and Western Plumas County.
In the Shasta Lake Area and Burney Basin, heavy snow is expected from 11 a.m. Saturday to 11 p.m. Sunday, with accumulations between 6 to 12 inches and up to 2 feet on peaks. Winds may reach 60 mph, increasing the risk of falling trees and power outages.
For Western Plumas County and Lassen Park, snowfall is forecasted from Sunday morning through Monday night, with 1 to 2 feet of snow and up to 3 feet at higher elevations. Winds could reach 75 mph, making travel difficult or impossible.
The West Slope of the Northern Sierra Nevada will also see significant snowfall from Sunday evening through Monday, with similar snow totals and winds gusting up to 70 mph. Monday morning and evening commutes may be severely impacted.
Drivers should check Caltrans QuickMap (quickmap.dot.ca.gov) or dial 511 for updated road conditions. Travelers are advised to delay trips if possible or carry emergency kits, including food, water, and warm clothing.
With strong winds and heavy snowfall, power outages and road closures are likely. Residents in affected areas should prepare accordingly and stay informed as the storm progresses.
