Severe Atmospheric River Threatens Northern California with Flooding, Snowstorms, and Wind Gusts as Sacramento Region Remains on High Alert

“A strong atmospheric river is expected to batter interior NorCal, bringing with it a mix of moderate to heavy rain, mountain snow, isolated thunderstorms, and gusty southerly winds that are expected to last through the weekend and into early next week,” the Sacramento National Weather Service said in a series of warnings. Residents in the region are preparing for possible flooding, travel difficulties, and power outages following severe winds due to the severity of the incoming weather.

A Winter Storm Warning is expected to be in effect for altitudes above 6000 feet along the Sierra and Southern Cascades, including key roads like Interstate 80 and Highway 50, from 4 PM today until 4 PM Tuesday, according to the NWS forecast. It is predicted that this strong system could produce substantial accumulations that might reach up to five feet on the highest peaks in addition to waves of severe precipitation. By early next week, it is also anticipated to drastically reduce snow levels, which could make mountain travel conditions dangerous.

In addition to the snow, a Flood Watch is in effect through late tonight for a number of Valley locales and foothills, particularly those north of Interstate 80 and below 3000 feet, because of the risk of heavy runoff that could cause rivers and creeks to rise quickly. Additionally, a wind advisory is in force until 10 AM today for the central Sacramento Valley and northeastern Sierra foothills due to southerly winds that have been blowing between 30 and 40 mph. Throughout the afternoon, winds are expected to gradually decrease, however gusts may continue in certain areas.

With 1.50 to 4 inches of rain predicted, with the Northern Sacramento Valley expected to receive the most, the ongoing rainfall also presents a significant risk of flooding over the Valley floor through the beginning of next week. “There is a 50-80% chance of totals greater than 3” between now and Monday afternoon, the National Weather Service said. Furthermore, thunderstorms are a remote possibility today, mostly from the Northern Sacramento Valley to the eastern parts of the Valley north of Interstate 80. Those who have travel plans in the near future are advised to keep alert and stay updated on conditions as the turbulent weather continues into next week.

Since the prediction suggests that there may be drier conditions coming up to Thanksgiving, there may be a little reprieve approaching the middle of next week. Residents and visitors should continue to keep a close eye on changes, though, and anyone wishing to drive throughout the holiday should check the road conditions at quickmap.dot.ca.gov before starting any trips.

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