California Braces for Major Snow and Rain

Heavy Rain and Snow Expected Statewide

After a prolonged period of dry and warm weather, California is preparing for a week of intense precipitation, with heavy rain and snow forecasted.

Sierra Nevada Mountains Face Massive Snowfall

The Sierra Nevada mountains are anticipated to receive a substantial amount of snow. Forecasters predict between 4 to 8 feet of snow by Wednesday. The heaviest snowfall is expected from Monday evening through Tuesday.

Travel Disruptions Likely

This snowfall could cause major travel disruptions, with mountain passes, including Donner Pass on Interstate 80, potentially closing temporarily. The National Weather Service advises against traveling in the mountains during this time.

Precipitation to Alleviate Water Needs

While the snow and rain will present hazards, they will also help with California's water needs. The state's snowpack has been below average due to recent dry and warm weather. This week's precipitation will help make up for the lack of snow and rain in the past few weeks.

Rockies Also in Need of Moisture

Further inland, the Rockies are also in need of moisture. Before this week, the snowpack in Colorado and Utah was near record-low levels. This is a critical area for the Colorado River basin, which serves approximately 40 million people.

Severe Thunderstorms Expected on Monday

In addition to the snow and rain, severe thunderstorms are expected on Monday. These storms could produce:

Damaging wind gusts
Frequent lightning
Downpours
Even an isolated tornado

The risk zone includes densely populated areas from San Luis Obispo County south through San Diego County, with additional tornado potential around the Sacramento Valley.

Flash Flooding a Possibility

Flash flooding from heavy rain is also a possibility, especially in urban areas and near burn scars. AccuWeather predicts that cumulative rainfall totals of 1-2 inches are expected in places like San Diego and the Central Valley, increasing to 2 to 4 inches near the Los Angeles Basin and into Northern California.