Sacramento, California – Heavy snow and strong winds are creating major travel impacts across Northern California through Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service Sacramento office, multiple rounds of precipitation will continue through Sunday, Feb. 22, bringing significant snowfall to the Sierra Nevada and surrounding foothills.
Forecast totals show 1 to 2 feet of snow between 2,500 and 3,500 feet. Areas above 3,500 feet could see 4 to 8 feet of accumulation. Snow levels are expected to lower from 2,500–3,500 feet down to 1,500–2,500 feet, and may drop as low as 1,000 feet at times in the Sierra and below 1,000 feet in Shasta County.
Blue Canyon is forecast to receive 72 to 96 inches of snow. Quincy could see 30 to 36 inches, while Burney and Sims may receive 12 to 18 inches. Wind gusts between 45 and 55 mph are expected in exposed mountain areas, increasing the risk of near whiteout conditions.
Major highways including Interstate 80 over Donner Pass, U.S. Highway 50 near South Lake Tahoe, and Interstate 5 north of Redding could experience chain controls, road closures, and extended delays. The National Weather Service states mountain travel is highly discouraged during this period.
Rainfall totals in lower elevations across the Sacramento Valley are expected to range from 0.5 to 1.5 inches, with locally higher amounts.
Commuters and weekend travelers should closely monitor Caltrans QuickMap for updated road conditions before traveling.
