Update: Weekend Winter Storm Watch Issued

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for the Sierra Nevada above 5,000 feet, from Friday afternoon through late Sunday night.

Snow levels will start above 8,000 feet on Friday before dropping below 4,000 feet on Sunday.

Total snow accumulations will range from five inches to two feet above the 5,000 foot elevation.

Winds of twenty-five to thirty-five mph are expected with gusts up to seventy mph.

Snow and wind may cause falling tree branches or limbs. These are dangerous conditions for hikers and campers. Expect travel delays this weekend, especially over the Sierra passes. There will be travel hazards due to snow covered, slick roads and blowing and drifting snow.

The winter storm will move through in two waves. The first wave of the storm arrives in Northern California late tonight. It will be wet and warm. This will be followed by a second cooler wave on Saturday and Sunday.

There is the possibility of urban and small stream flooding as well as debris flow near recent burn scars.

A Winter Storm Watch means there is a potential for significant snow that may impact travel.