Update: Sierra Storm Watch, Mother Lode Flood Watch
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for the Sierra Nevada from Thursday morning through Friday afternoon.
Additionally, a Flood Watch has been issued for the Mother Lode and the Sierra Nevada from Thursday afternoon through late Thursday night.
A couple of more Pacific storms will impact Northern California Tuesday through Friday with potentially heavy rain.
Snow levels are expected to start around 4,000 feet and then rise to 5,500 feet from Tuesday into Wednesday. As the snow levels climb, some snow melt is likely due to rainfall and warmer temperatures. Snow levels will drop again with the colder system by late Thursday.
A total two to five inches of rain is possible over the Sierra Nevada. This will be in addition to the three to eight inches of rain that fell over the same area last week.
The total snow accumulation from Tuesday through Wednesday is expected to be light around the 4,000 foot elevation. A moderate amount of snow is expected above 5,500 feet.
The second stronger storm has the potential to bring heavier snow along with stronger winds on Thursday and Friday. Eight to sixteen inches of snow accumulation is likely at the higher elevations.
The winds may cause white out conditions at times.
A Winter Storm Watch means there is a potential for significant snow accumulations that may impact travel.
A Flood Watch means there is a potential for flooding based on current forecasts. You should monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible Flood Warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop.
