REDDING, Calif. – NOAA’s Winter 2025–2026 outlook, released Thursday, Oct. 16, calls for a colder, wetter setup across Northern California — with heavy Sierra snow and periodic valley rain expected through February and into March. The Climate Prediction Center’s data shows above-normal precipitation and near- to below-normal temperatures for much of the region, reflecting La Niña’s continued influence on the Pacific storm track.
According to the National Weather Service in Sacramento, “This winter’s pattern looks active, especially for the Sierra and northern interior valleys. Frequent Pacific systems should keep conditions wet and cool.” The heaviest snow is expected across Donner Pass, South Lake Tahoe, and Mount Shasta, where multiple multi-foot snow events could hit between January and late February.
Forecasters also caution that valley locations like Redding, Chico, and Yuba City could see chilly rains, gusty winds, and occasional low-elevation snow during Arctic intrusions. Caltrans warns of possible chain controls and closures along I-80, Highway 50, and U.S. 395 during peak storm periods.
NOAA adds that colder-than-average air may linger into March, extending snowpack accumulation and delaying spring runoff. While this moisture will benefit long-term drought recovery, flood risks could rise if multiple warm storms arrive late in the season.
For Northern California, Winter 2026 looks wet, cold, and snow-heavy — a return to classic Sierra winters where preparedness and patience will be key from the foothills to the high peaks.
