California, USA – Sheets of rain sweep across the Sacramento Valley before sunrise, blurring tail lights on I-5 and sending steady runoff along neighborhood curbs. The air feels damp and cool, and low clouds hang over the city like a heavy lid, signaling a stormy start to the week as Thanksgiving travel kicks into gear.
Heavy rain continues early this morning, according to the National Weather Service, with occasional bursts that reduce visibility and challenge drivers on I-80, Highway 99, and the Capital City Freeway. Those leaving home for work, school, or holiday errands should expect ponding on roads, slower travel, and gusty winds that may push vehicles on exposed overpasses.
According to meteorologists, showers taper later today as thunder chances fade. Still, brief rumbles are possible where pockets of unstable air form south of the city. Residents should watch for slick conditions through midday and check drainage areas around their homes, as leaves continue to clog gutters during these late-November storms.
Skies trend drier tonight, setting up a brighter Tuesday. Sunshine and highs in the upper 50s bring a welcome break for early Thanksgiving travelers, outdoor workers, and those squeezing in yard cleanup between systems. To be fair, the break doesn’t last long.
Models hint at another system reaching Northern California on Wednesday with increasing clouds and a renewed chance of showers. This wave looks weaker but still capable of slowing afternoon travel, especially for those heading toward the Sierra foothills. Even though major snow stays higher up, early-season patterns remain volatile, and a quick “winter tease” in the mountains shouldn’t be ruled out.
The weekend trends mostly sunny and mild, offering stable weather for regional gatherings, early decorating, and continued Thanksgiving travel across the Sacramento region.
