Northern California Braces for Weekend Storm

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A storm system is set to bring significant precipitation and strong winds to Northern California over the upcoming weekend and into next week. The region will see rain starting on Sunday, with the main band of rainfall arriving in the afternoon. Rainfall amounts are expected to be notable but not excessive, potentially leading to some localized street flooding. However, the bigger impact will be from the snow, with several feet expected above 5,000 feet and up to a foot or more around 4,000 feet. Wind advisories have also been issued for the Sacramento Valley, with gusts reaching 35-45 mph on Monday and Tuesday.

Why it matters

This storm system has the potential to disrupt travel, cause power outages, and impact outdoor activities across Northern California. The heavy snowfall at higher elevations could also pose risks for those engaging in winter sports and recreation. Residents and local authorities will need to closely monitor the weather conditions and be prepared to respond accordingly.

The details

The storm system is expected to move into the region on Sunday, with rain starting in the morning and the main band of rainfall arriving in the afternoon. Rainfall amounts are forecast to be notable but not excessive, potentially leading to some localized street flooding. However, the bigger impact will be from the snow, with several feet expected above 5,000 feet and up to a foot or more around 4,000 feet. Snow levels are expected to drop below 3,000 feet, but the snow will stick best around 3,000 feet. In addition to the precipitation, the National Weather Service has issued wind advisories for the Sacramento Valley, with winds of 10-25 mph and gusts of 35-45 mph expected on Monday and Tuesday.

• Rain starts to move in on Sunday morning.
• The main band of rain arrives on Sunday afternoon.
• Rain continues overnight and into Monday.
• Wind advisories are in effect for the Sacramento Valley on Monday and Tuesday.
• Wednesday is expected to be an Impact Day due to the weather conditions.

What’s next

Residents and local authorities should continue to monitor the weather conditions and be prepared to respond accordingly, as the storm system has the potential to disrupt travel, cause power outages, and impact outdoor activities across Northern California.