More rain on the way for Sacramento Valley and snow in the mountains, forecasters say
A series of multi-day storms are expected to impact Northern California next week and could bring several inches of rain to the Sacramento Valley and disrupt travel over the Sierra Nevada with several feet of snow.
The National Weather Service’s Sacramento office is forecasting wintry weather in the days ahead — potentially through the end of the year, with the possibility for holiday travel delays on mountain passes in the region.
“Holiday travel could be significantly disrupted by these storms, with little break in the snow during this extended event,” weather service officials wrote in a Saturday forecast discussion.
Meteorologists said that more stormy weather is likely to begin starting late Monday, with widespread chances of snow and rain throughout the region. In a special weather statement released Saturday, the weather service said that the most significant mountain snowfall — potentially several feet of snow over several days — is expected Tuesday through Thursday evening.
Next week, snowfall can be expected in the Sierra Nevada above 5,000 feet, while elevations above 6,500 feet could see “significant snowpack buildup.” The snowfall is predicted to continue through to next weekend, with even more precipitation over the mountains.
“Simulations continue to highlight the potential for active weather through Christmas into the New Year for the Sierra and Western Nevada,” meteorologists wrote in their special weather statement.
Valley communities such as Sacramento can expect more significant rainfall in the week ahead after a previous week of wet weather. Through Saturday, areas in the Valley are expected to receive between 1 and 3.5 inches of rain. Rainfall in the foothills will be more severe, with 3 to 6 inches possible.
Forecasters warned that travel over mountain passes should be avoided during the snowstorms if possible.
“Consider alternate routes or adjusting departure time if planning to travel for the holidays,” forecasters wrote. “This is especially true if that travel consists of crossing the Sierra, where chain controls are likely to be in place.”
This story was originally published December 18, 2021 at 12:55 PM.
