Unsettled Weather Continues Across Kern County This Weekend

Periods of rain, gusty winds, and thunderstorms expected through Sunday as storm system moves in.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 10:04pm

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A sweeping, atmospheric landscape painting depicting a rural California scene with dark, dramatic storm clouds dominating the sky and dwarfing any visible structures or landmarks below, conveying the overwhelming power of the approaching weather system.As a powerful storm system sweeps across Kern County, the region braces for a weekend of unsettled weather and potential hazardous conditions.Bakersfield Today

Kern County is in for a stretch of active and sometimes rough weather through the weekend, according to the National Weather Service. Periods of rain, gusty winds, and even thunderstorms are expected through Sunday as a storm system moves into Central California. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for the Sierra Nevada above 7,000 feet and a Wind Advisory for the Mojave Slopes through Sunday night.

Why it matters

Extreme weather conditions can pose significant risks to public safety, disrupt transportation, and impact local businesses and residents. Providing timely and accurate weather forecasts is crucial for the community to prepare and stay safe.

The details

The Winter Storm Warning calls for heavy snowfall, especially overnight, with a high likelihood of significant accumulation. Travel through mountain passes could become difficult or dangerous. The Wind Advisory expects strong, gusty winds in the desert and mountains, which could make driving difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles.

  • The Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for the Sierra Nevada above 7,000 feet through Sunday night.
  • The Wind Advisory is in place for the Mojave Slopes through Sunday night.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather alerts and warnings.

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What they’re saying

“Kern County is in for a stretch of active and sometimes rough weather through the weekend.”

— Eyewitness News, Author

What’s next

The storm system will slowly move out by Monday, but a few lingering showers may stick around in certain areas of Kern County. Even after the rain tapers off, cooler temperatures and breezy conditions are expected to stick around for much of next week, with additional weaker systems possible.

The takeaway

Residents of Kern County should closely monitor weather forecasts and alerts, prepare for potential travel disruptions and power outages, and take necessary precautions to stay safe during the unsettled weather conditions expected throughout the weekend.