Eureka, California – Travel through Northern California’s mountain passes could become hazardous within the next 48 hours as snow returns and snow levels rapidly drop.
According to the National Weather Service in Eureka, snow will redevelop by Wednesday with snow levels initially between 5,000 and 5,500 feet. By Wednesday night into early Thursday, colder air will push snow levels down to 3,000 feet or lower, bringing accumulating snow to key ճանապարհs including Highway 3 at Scott Mountain Pass and higher elevations along Highways 36 and 299.
Probability data shows a strong chance of more than 2 inches of snow across interior areas, increasing the likelihood of chain controls and travel delays. Areas near Trinity County and higher terrain east of Humboldt County are most at risk for accumulating snow.
Drivers should prepare for rapidly changing conditions, including snow-covered roads, reduced visibility, and possible restrictions on mountain routes. Caltrans may implement chain requirements with little notice.
Snow chances continue through Thursday, and additional updates are expected as confidence in snowfall totals and timing improves.
