Sacramento, CA – A powerful winter storm is set to impact the Sierra Nevada region starting Sunday morning, bringing heavy snowfall, strong winds, and hazardous travel conditions through Monday night.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Sacramento, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for Western Plumas County, Lassen Park, and the West Slope of the Northern Sierra Nevada from Sunday morning until 11 p.m. Monday. Snowfall totals could reach 1 to 3 feet above 5,000 feet, with some peaks accumulating up to 4 feet. Lower elevations between 4,500 and 5,000 feet may see 5 to 12 inches of snow.
Winds are expected to be a major concern, with gusts reaching 75 mph in Lassen Park and 70 mph along the West Slope of the Northern Sierra Nevada. The strongest winds and heaviest snowfall are expected Sunday night into early Monday morning, with snowfall rates of 2 to 3 inches per hour at times.
Travel through the region is expected to be difficult to impossible, especially along mountain passes. The storm could heavily impact Monday morning and evening commutes, with low visibility and icy roads. Tree damage and power outages are also possible due to the combination of high winds and heavy snow.
Residents and travelers are urged to delay travel if possible. Those who must travel should carry a winter storm kit, drive with caution, and check road conditions via Caltrans QuickMap (quickmap.dot.ca.gov) or by dialing 511.
