The National Weather Service is warning area residents to prepare for a wet and windy winter storm bringing winds gusting up to 50mph and heavy snowfall down to the valley floor this weekend.
A Winter Storm Warning, which calls for heavy snow and gusty winds, has been issued by the National Weather Service for Lassen County and is in effect from 4:00a.m. Friday to 10:00p.m. Sunday.
NWS meteorologists are forecasting light to moderate snow on Friday which will increase to periods of moderate to heavy snow on Saturday and Sunday.
On Friday, above 4,500 feet, residents can expect 5 to 10 inches west of Highway 395 with up to 3 inches along and east of Highway 395. Up to 2 inches is expected to fall below 4,500 feet in this first round of snowfall.
The next wave of moisture, and the greatest chance for heavy snow, will be from Saturday through Sunday evening above 4,500 feet. 1 to 3 feet of snow is expected during the period for west of Highway 395, with 6 to 12 inches predicted east of Highway 395.
The highest totals with this storm will occur along Highway 89 and near Yuba and Fredonyer passes where 2 to 5 feet is likely.
Winds associated with the storm will be out of the south 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 50 mph.
The National Weather Service warns that periods of heavy snow and strong winds will lead to whiteout conditions and lengthy travel delays. Travelers need to consider a secondary route to avoid mountain passes this weekend. Back country activities are not advised.
Conditions will deteriorate late Friday and early Saturday and travel is discouraged over the passes this weekend.
In addition to the Winter Storm Warning the NWS has also issued a Wind Advisory in effect until 10:00p.m. Thursday night.
Gusty winds will continue this evening. The highest gusts will occur along Highway 395 in eastern Lassen County and in the Surprise Valley.
Winds will gust up to 50 mph. Travel will be difficult for high-profile vehicles along highways 395, 447 and in the Surprise Valley.
Motorists, especially in high-profile vehicles, should use caution and remain alert for sudden gusts or cross winds.
We will keep you updated with all the latest storm information right here on SusanvilleStuff and at our sister site http://www.lassenweathernetwork.com
