Sacramento, California – A colder and increasingly active weather pattern is expected to take hold across Northern California by Thursday, with temperatures dropping below seasonal averages and an elevated risk of rain and mountain snow impacting travel, rivers, and daily routines.
According to the National Weather Service and NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, the 8–14 day outlook from Friday through the middle of next week favors below-normal temperatures across much of Northern California. Daytime highs are expected to run several degrees below typical mid-February levels, keeping valley locations cool while reinforcing snow potential in the Sierra Nevada.
Sacramento, the Bay Area, Stockton, Redding, and the North Bay all fall within the cooler-than-average signal. Overnight lows dipping into the 30s could create slick morning conditions, especially on bridges, overpasses, and shaded roadways. Higher elevations will remain cold enough to support accumulating snow with each passing system.
Precipitation probabilities are above average across the region. Multiple Pacific systems are expected to bring rounds of rain to coastal and valley areas, while significant snowfall is possible in the Sierra, including Donner Pass, Echo Summit, and along Highway 50 and I-80. Caltrans warns that chain controls, reduced visibility, and travel delays are likely during periods of heavier snow.
The colder, wetter pattern is expected to persist into the middle of next week. Residents should stay alert for updated advisories, river statements, and mountain travel alerts as additional storms move through Northern California.
