FRESNO, California – Central California’s run of mild, dry fall weather is coming to a close as colder air and Pacific storms begin to reshape the region between November 9 and 15. Forecasters say this early winter pattern could bring soaking rain to the valleys and accumulating snow to the Sierra Nevada — the first meaningful taste of winter for much of the state.
According to the NOAA Climate Prediction Center, central California will trend below normal in temperature and above normal in precipitation through mid-November. That pattern favors multiple storm systems sweeping inland from the Pacific, delivering beneficial rainfall to the San Joaquin Valley and heavy mountain snow above 5,000 feet from Yosemite to Sequoia National Park.
The National Weather Service offices in Hanford and Sacramento report that a strong cold front early next week will drop daytime highs into the 50s and 60s, with overnight lows near 40°F in the valleys. Snow levels could fall to around 4,500 feet midweek, creating slick conditions on Highway 41, Highway 168, and Tioga Pass. Gusty winds may also accompany the front, reducing visibility in open stretches of the valley.
Residents are urged to prepare now — clear gutters, check heating systems, and have sandbags ready in flood-prone areas. Travelers heading toward the Sierra should carry tire chains and expect delays if snow accumulates.
With Thanksgiving approaching, forecasters say central California’s shift marks the first strong signal of the rainy season’s arrival — a welcome sight for reservoirs but an early reminder that winter travel hazards are returning fast.
