A weak weather system arrives later today continuing through Saturday bringing mostly low/minor impacts with periods of beneficial rain, gusty south winds, and high snow levels. Overall precipitation totals from this wave of moisture have trended lower.

A look at the rain forecast for today through Saturday. Highest rain totals expected in the northeast Foothills, northern Sacramento Valley, and Sierra. Little to no snow expected from this wave, as snow levels are above 8000 feet.
A look at the rain forecast for today through Saturday. Highest rain totals expected in the northeast Foothills, northern Sacramento Valley, and Sierra. Little to no snow expected from this wave, as snow levels are above 8000 feet.

Sunday into at least the middle of next week: confidence increasing in a wetter, colder, and more impactful storm moving into the area.

A look at the Weather Prediction Center's Excessive Rainfall Outlook (ERO) for this weekend into next week. A slight (15%) chance of excessive rainfall is expected across most of NorCal, as a stronger Atmospheric River is forecast to move into the region by Sunday.
A look at the Weather Prediction Center’s Excessive Rainfall Outlook (ERO) for this weekend into next week. A slight (15%) chance of excessive rainfall is expected across most of NorCal, as a stronger Atmospheric River is forecast to move into the region by Sunday.

Holiday travel impacts are becoming more likely with moderate to heavy rain at times, mountain snow, and gusty winds. Precipitation is not expected to come all at once, however precipitation is expected to continue beyond the holiday.

7-day storm totals today through Christmas Eve
7-day storm totals today through Christmas Eve

Highest rainfall totals currently forecast along the Sierra and Shasta County mountains and in the northern Sacramento Valley.

Snow levels above 8,000 feet through Sunday, lowering to 6,500 to 7,500 feet on Monday, then as low as 5500 feet from Tuesday onward.

While confidence is increasing on the active weather, uncertainty remains on storm track, precipitation totals, and how strong wind gusts may be. We will continue to post frequent updates as the forecast adjusts over the next few days.