California Braces for Major Winter Storm

Heavy rain, snow, and high winds expected to hit the state this week

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Much of California is preparing for a powerful winter storm that is expected to bring treacherous thunderstorms, high winds, and heavy snow in mountain areas. The storm is forecast to hit the state on Monday and last through Wednesday, with the western slope of the Sierra Nevada, northern Shasta County, and parts of the Coast Range potentially seeing up to 8 feet of snow.

Why it matters

This winter storm poses a significant threat to public safety and infrastructure across California. The heavy snow, wind, and low visibility could make travel conditions extremely dangerous, if not impossible in some areas. There are also concerns about potential flooding, mud, and debris flows, especially in regions scarred by recent wildfires.

The details

The National Weather Service has issued winter storm warnings from southwest Oregon to the Southern California border. Forecasters say the storm will progress in several phases, with multiple storm systems moving through the region and intensifying the risks from wind, rain, and snow. Power companies are preparing for potential outages by strategically positioning crews and equipment. State and local emergency services are also mobilizing resources to respond to any issues that may arise.

  • The storm is expected to hit California on Monday and last through Wednesday.
  • The western slope of the Sierra Nevada, northern Shasta County, and parts of the Coast Range could see up to 8 feet of snow before the storm moves out.

The players

Jacob Spender

A National Weather Service meteorologist in Sacramento who urged people to take precautions and pack winter safety kits, especially if they plan to travel.

Pacific Gas & Electric

A utility company that is using artificial intelligence and machine-learning enhanced weather models to help determine where to send crews and equipment ahead of the storm.

California's Office of Emergency Services

The state agency that is placing fire and rescue personnel and resources in areas most at risk for flooding, mud, and debris flows.

Karen Bass

The mayor of Los Angeles who has ordered emergency crews and city departments to be ready to respond to any problems caused by the storm.

Kashawna McInerny

A realtor in the mountain town community of Wrightwood who is taking precautions to protect her home from mud and debris flows.

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What they’re saying

“It has seemed 'spring-like' for a large part of 2026, but winter is set to show it's not quite done yet.”

— Shasta County Sheriff's Office (Social media post)

“Unlike most winter storms, the anticipated weather event will 'progress in several phases,' with multiple storm systems moving through the region that will likely intensify the risks from wind, rain and snow.”

— Pacific Gas & Electric (News release)

“We're not panicking yet. At least I'm not.”

— Kashawna McInerny, Realtor (Associated Press)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This major winter storm highlights the importance of emergency preparedness and resilience in the face of extreme weather events, which are becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change. Residents and authorities must work together to mitigate the risks and ensure the safety of communities across California.