While this winter has been quite mild with limited snowfall in Sierra valleys and lower elevations so far, a more typical January weather pattern with cold temperatures and snow arrives later this week.
Before this change to the colder weather pattern, according to the update from the National Weather Service’s Reno office, a weak and fast moving storm system will bring light rain and high elevation snow to the region late Monday night through Tuesday. Snow accumulations will generally be limited to areas near the Sierra above 7,000 feet, with up to 4 inches possible.
Forecasters expect the stronger and colder storm will arrive by Thursday and continue through Friday. Strong winds are likely on Thursday with gusts above 50mph possible in lower elevations, while Sierra ridge gusts could reach 100 mph. Rain and high elevation snow also arrives with this storm on Thursday. Snow levels will begin to fall Thursday afternoon, then drop to all valley floors Thursday night through Friday.
This storm will potentially produce heavy snowfall and poor visibility for travel and outdoor activity, especially for the Sierra. Snowfall totals may exceed 1 foot above 7,000 feet, with
several inches up to 1 foot possible for valleys near the Sierra and Lake Tahoe, and in far western Nevada down to near 5,500 feet.
For lower elevations of eastern California and western Nevada, accumulating snow is possible Thursday night and Friday.
For next weekend, colder conditions will continue with another storm possibly bringing more snow and windy conditions to the region.
If you are planning travel later this week or next weekend, now is the time to ensure that your vehicle is ready for winter conditions, including an emergency kit with extra food, water, clothing, and tire chains if necessary.
For up-to-date weather information follow this link to the Lassen Weather Network.
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