Significant Mountain Snow and Major Travel Impacts Expected Next Week

Coldest storm of the season brings widespread rain, gusty winds, and substantial mountain snow late Sunday through mid-week.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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A powerful winter storm is forecast to bring significant mountain snow, gusty winds, and major travel impacts to Northern California starting late Sunday and continuing through mid-week. The storm is expected to deliver several feet of snow above 4,000 feet, with snow levels potentially dropping as low as 1,500-2,500 feet by late Tuesday into Thursday. Gusty southerly winds and the potential for isolated thunderstorms are also anticipated.

Why it matters

This storm system has the potential to significantly disrupt holiday travel plans and impact access to mountain communities. The combination of heavy snow, low snow levels, and gusty winds could make driving conditions treacherous, especially for those traveling over mountain passes. The storm also brings the risk of power outages and other infrastructure impacts in affected areas.

The details

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for the foothills and mountains from 10 PM Sunday through 10 PM Wednesday. The heaviest snow is expected Monday through early Wednesday, with snow levels starting at 4,500-5,500 feet on Sunday and dropping to 2,500-3,500 feet by Monday night. There is the potential for snow accumulations down to around 2,000 feet, with the lowest snow levels over the Coastal Range, Shasta County, and the southern Cascades.

  • The storm is forecast to arrive late Sunday afternoon into Sunday night.
  • The heaviest snow is expected Monday through early Wednesday morning.
  • Gusty southerly winds are anticipated Monday through Wednesday, with the strongest winds expected on Tuesday.
  • Snow levels could drop as low as 1,500-2,500 feet late Tuesday through Thursday.

The players

National Weather Service Forecast Office Sacramento

The National Weather Service office responsible for issuing weather forecasts and warnings for the Sacramento region and surrounding areas.

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What’s next

Travelers are advised to monitor weather forecasts and road conditions closely and be prepared for potentially hazardous driving conditions, especially over mountain passes, during the storm. Power outages and other infrastructure impacts are also possible in affected areas.

The takeaway

This powerful winter storm has the potential to significantly disrupt travel and impact access to mountain communities in Northern California. Residents and travelers should closely monitor weather forecasts and be prepared for heavy snow, gusty winds, and treacherous driving conditions over the next several days.