Sacramento, CA – A Winter Weather Advisory has been issued for the West Slope Northern Sierra Nevada and Western Plumas County/Lassen Park, warning of moderate to heavy snow beginning 1 a.m. Thursday and lasting through 4 a.m. Friday, according to the National Weather Service in Sacramento.
Forecasters say snow will develop above 6,500 feet early Thursday, with 3 to 8 inches of accumulation expected in most mountain areas. The highest peaks south of U.S. Highway 50 could see 1 to 2 feet of snow by early Friday morning.
Southwest winds may gust up to 50 mph, creating blowing snow and reduced visibility at times. Snow levels will start above 8,000 feet Wednesday evening before dropping to 5,500–6,500 feet Thursday afternoon into Friday morning.
The National Weather Service warns that travel could become slippery and hazardous, especially across mountain passes including Donner Summit, Echo Summit, and Blue Canyon. Both the Thursday morning and evening commutes may be impacted by accumulating snow and gusty winds.
Drivers are urged to check Caltrans QuickMap (quickmap.dot.ca.gov) or call 511 for the latest road and chain control updates.
