Sacramento, CA – A powerful winter storm is sweeping through Northern California, bringing heavy snow, dangerous winds, and hazardous travel conditions through Friday. Areas above 3,000 feet, including Burney Basin, Lassen Park, and the western slopes of the Sierra Nevada, are experiencing significant snowfall and strong gusts.
According to the National Weather Service, snow totals could reach up to 2 feet at higher elevations, with peak wind gusts of 75 mph. The heaviest snowfall is expected overnight into Friday morning, with rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour.
The storm is causing dangerous travel conditions, with chain controls and road closures likely along major mountain routes. Visibility is low due to wind-driven snow, making driving especially treacherous in affected areas like Quincy, Chester, and Blue Canyon. In lower elevations around Shasta Lake, snowfall could reach up to a foot, with gusts up to 40 mph.
Motorists are urged to check Caltrans road updates at quickmap.dot.ca.gov or dial 511 before traveling. Residents should prepare for possible power outages due to falling tree limbs and strong winds. The storm is expected to taper off by midday Friday.
