Winter weather coming full force: What to expect for California travel from Sacramento

Mother nature is gifting rainy weather and cold temperatures to many parts of California this holiday week. As more people get on the road to see family and friends or to start their winter vacation, and with the weather, travel conditions can get rough.

Sacramento can expect temperatures to range from 46 to 55 degrees with lows at 34 to 49 degrees, Monday through Friday. There’s also a high chance of rain.

“We’ll start to see widespread rain and mountain snow chances move into the area late Tuesday and pretty much last until through the weekend,” said Anna Wanless, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Sacramento. She added that precipitation will pick up later on Wednesday.

“We are expecting 2 to 3 inches, so it’s a decent amount of precipitation,” Wanless said.

The precipitation in Northern California will also bring some snow in the Sierra Nevada and other higher elevation areas. In some areas, snow will pile up 6 to 8 feet.

“Holiday travel disruptions are likely with the potential for chain controls, significant travel delays and possible road closures,” meteorologists wrote in a Sunday forecast discussion. “There could even be potentially downed tree branches in the Valley and foothills.”

But Wanless said, it’s important to remember that the rain and snow will be spread out, as it is occurring over a period of days.

What to expect in Sacramento area

If you’re spending the holidays in Sacramento, be prepared for slick roads. Wanless advises people give themselves extra time to reach their end destinations.

What to expect in the mountains

For those gearing up for the the mountain areas, such as Lake Tahoe, Reno or over the Sierra, expect periods of moderate to heavy snow.

“While these storms themselves aren’t abnormal, it’s the fact that they’re kind of continuing for almost a week and it just so happens to be happening over the Christmas time period,” Wanless said.

She added that it could get a little windy, which can create some blowing snow and reduce visibility. There may be some delays or chain controls, which travelers can prepare for by checking the Caltrans Quick Map.

“We’re trying to tell people today is the best day to travel – today or early tomorrow,” Wanless said, referring to Dec. 20 and Dec. 21. “And probably early Wednesday is like the end of when you want to be traveling.”

If you’re planning on getting on the plane for your holiday commute, check your airlines or airport for information about weather and delays.

What to expect going to the Bay area

Similar to traveling around Sacramento for the week, Wanless said expect slick roads and give yourself extra time.

What to expect heading north in California

If you’re going farther north in California, towards the Northern Shasta County Mountains or north of Redding, plan for snow. There might not be as much snowfall here as it is forecasted in the Sierra, but it’s something to pay attention to, Wanless said.

What to expect in Southern California

Prepare for wet roads if you’re going south to Los Angeles, like you would if you were traveling in Sacramento or the Bay Area.

How to prepare for winter travel

Whether it’s raining or snowing, be sure you’re prepared for winter weather before hitting the road.

“Make sure your car is in good shape for travel in general,” Wanless said. This includes inspecting your windshield wiper blades and having chains on-hand if you’re traveling into the mountains.

“It doesn’t hurt to have an emergency supply kit with a first aid kit,” she said. “Maybe extra food and water, flashlights, a phone charger, blankets and warm clothes.”

Also, stay updated with weather forecasts and Caltrans for a better understanding of road conditions.

When should I get off the road?

Depending on where you are going, local weather service offices will have winter weather warnings. They will have detailed reports on expected weather in the area, travel conditions and delays.

Unless there is a closure, whether or not you should get off the road will be up to you.

“People have different levels of comfort,” Wanless said. If the weather is impacting visibility to the point where you can’t see the road, then it’s a good idea to pull of to the side, she said.

This story was originally published December 20, 2021 at 4:18 PM.