The Action News AccuWeather Center is predicting a big temperature drop for the North State.
The AccuWeather Center and the National Weather Service says a cold weather system from the Gulf of Alaska will move over Northern California on Thursday and Friday bringing much colder temperatures, some light valley rain and mountain snow. Although this is a weak storm, a significant drop in maximum temperatures will occur from one day to the next. The three main concerns of the Weather Service: 15-20 degree drop in maximum temperatures from Wednesday to Thursday. 2-3" of snow down to 2700 - 3000 feet. 6-7" of snow at the Sierra mountain passes. Mountain pass winds will exceed 50mph.
TIMING
· Beginning Thursday early morning
· Most intense Thursday and Thursday evening with another wave of snow Friday during the day
· Ending Friday with lingering mountain snow showers into Saturday
LOCATIONS AND CONDITIONS
· Valley max temps in the 50s, foothills max temps in 30s.
· Valley Rain Insignificant ( < 0.1")
· Snow levels 2700-3000'
· Storm Total Snow:
2-3" snow at 3,000'
4-8" snow at mountain pass level
11" snow higher Sierra
Mountain Pass winds > 50 MPH
IMPACTS
· Large drop in valley high temperatures
· First low elevation snow of the season
· Hazardous driving through mountains due to snow
· Strong High Sierra winds and localized blowing snow with reduced visibility
CONFIDENCE
· Moderate to high with this storm.
