Sacramento, CA – A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect for the West Slope of the Northern Sierra Nevada from 4 p.m. today through 10 a.m. Friday, with forecasters warning of wet snow and gusty winds across high-elevation routes.
According to the National Weather Service, areas above 7,000 feet are expected to receive 3–6 inches of snow south of Highway 50, while the highest peaks could accumulate 12–18 inches. Winds may gust up to 50 mph along ridges, creating pockets of reduced visibility and periods of blowing snow.
Snow levels will remain elevated—near or above 8,000 feet—tonight before lowering toward 7,000–7,500 feet by Friday morning. This timing may cause travel impacts during both the Thursday evening and Friday morning commute windows, particularly for drivers along Interstate 80, Highway 50, and routes leading into Blue Canyon and nearby communities.
Forecasters caution that the wet, heavy nature of the snow could make mountain roads slippery and produce rapid changes in travel conditions. Drivers are urged to check Caltrans QuickMap or dial 511 for real-time road updates, as chain controls are likely.
If travel cannot be delayed, officials recommend slowing down, keeping extra distance between vehicles, and preparing for sudden visibility drops along curves, ridgelines, and shaded areas. Visitors planning overnight trips into the Sierra should bring emergency supplies and ensure their vehicles are winter-ready.
