Winter Storm Watch Issued for Northern California

Residents and travelers urged to use caution as heavy snow expected over Presidents Day weekend

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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A winter storm watch has been issued for much of Northern California, including popular ski destinations in the Sierra Nevada mountains. The National Weather Service is warning of 'major travel impacts' and advising people to use 'extreme caution' if traveling to the region over the holiday weekend. However, meteorologists say Saturday through Sunday morning will provide the 'best travel window' before the cold weather system arrives.

Why it matters

This winter storm could significantly disrupt travel plans for many people heading to Northern California for the Presidents Day holiday. The Sierra Nevada mountains are a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding, and the heavy snowfall could make roads impassable and force road closures, stranding travelers.

The details

The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm watch for much of Northern California, including the Sierra Nevada mountains. Meteorologists are forecasting several feet of snow to accumulate in the region over the holiday weekend. Dakari Anderson, a National Weather Service meteorologist in Sacramento, warned that the period from Saturday through Sunday morning will provide the 'best travel window' before the cold weather system arrives and causes 'major travel impacts'.

  • The winter storm watch is in effect from Saturday through Monday.
  • The heaviest snowfall is expected to occur from Saturday evening through Sunday morning.

The players

Dakari Anderson

A National Weather Service meteorologist in the Sacramento office.

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What they’re saying

“As people travel for the holiday weekend, much of Northern California is under a winter storm watch, with communities bracing for several feet of snow.”

— Sara Cline, Associated Press Reporter (Associated Press)

“Saturday through Sunday morning is going to be the 'best travel window' ahead of the incoming cold weather system.”

— Dakari Anderson, National Weather Service Meteorologist (Associated Press)

What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the storm and provide updated forecasts and travel advisories as the holiday weekend approaches.

The takeaway

Travelers heading to Northern California, especially popular ski destinations in the Sierra Nevada mountains, should closely monitor weather conditions and be prepared for potential travel disruptions over the Presidents Day holiday weekend.