Some long-awaited winter rain is coming. But don't expect it until after dark this evening.
According to the National Weather Service, Sacramento likely will get wet after 8 p.m. today. Showers will continue into the wee hours before tapering off in time for Monday morning's commute.
"Most of the day will be dry," said meteorologist Mike Smith. "After sunset, we'll start to see a little light rain. The heaviest rainfall should be between midnight and 6 a.m. It will still be drizzling Monday morning for commuters."
Rain totals could reach a half inch in the greater Sacramento area.
Today's late-night rainstorm will spread across Northern California and bring a dusting of snow to the Sierra. The NWS has issued a winter weather advisory, starting at midnight tonight. Snow levels could drop as low as 3,500 feet.
Meanwhile, today will start out partly cloudy and dry. Temperatures will hover around 60 degrees in the afternoon as clouds thicken with the impending storm.
"We'll see a lot of high clouds, but most of the day will be dry," Smith said.
Compared to last week's springlike weather, lower temperatures will prevail this coming week, with highs in the 50s on Monday and Tuesday. Another storm may edge into the forecast by midweek.
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