Update: New Year Weather Includes Watches & A Warning
A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for the Sierra Nevada above 7,000 feet through 4 PM Thursday.
A Flash Flood Watch is also in effect for the Sierra Nevada through Thursday afternoon.
Additionally, a Flood Watch has been issued for the Mother Lode through Thursday morning.
According to the National Weather Service, an additional eight to eighteen inches of total snow accumulation is expected above 6,000 feet. A foot-and-a-half to two feet of additional snow is expected above 8,000 feet.
In areas of the Sierra Nevada where it is not snowing, heavy rainfall is expected at times through Thursday afternoon, resulting in rapid rises along small streams, creeks and rivers and increasing the threat of Flash Flooding.
Rain totals of one to six inches are likely in the Sierra. An additional one to three inches of rain is expected in the Mother Lode through Thursday morning.
Some of the impacts will include the flooding of roads, highways, small streams and rivers. Rock slides and mud and debris flows are also possible resulting in possible road closures. The threat of Flash Flooding will be largest in the vicinity of burn scars.
A Winter Storm Warning means significant amounts of snow are expected. Strong winds are also possible. This will make travel very hazardous or impossible.
A Flash Flood Watch means that conditions may develop that lead to flash flooding. Flash flooding is a very dangerous situation. You should be prepared to take action should Flash Flood Warnings be issued.
A Flood Watch means there is a potential for flooding based on current forecasts. You should be alert for possible flood warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop.
