If you’re in Sierra or Shasta Counties, get ready for a major winter blast—heavy snow, powerful winds, and hazardous travel conditions are on the way, and things are going to get rough through Friday night.
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning, and for good reason—this storm is bringing feet of snow, near-blizzard conditions, and even potential flooding at lower elevations. If you’re thinking about traveling through the Sierra, you might want to rethink those plans.
🌨️ What’s Coming?
A massive winter storm system is rolling through Northern California, bringing:
✔ Heavy snowfall—measured in feet, not inches
✔ Gusty winds up to 60 mph, creating dangerous whiteout conditions
✔ Potential flooding at lower elevations due to heavy rain
The worst of the storm will hit Thursday, when snow could fall at rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour. By the time it’s all over, some areas could be buried under 5 feet of snow!
📍 Who’s Getting Hit the Hardest?
🏔️ Sierra Nevada (Above 6,000 feet)
✔ 2 to 5 feet of snow expected—enough to shut down major roads and mountain passes.
✔ Wind gusts up to 60 mph, making travel nearly impossible.
✔ Whiteout conditions could leave drivers stranded.
📍 Lower Elevations (4,500 – 6,000 feet)
✔ 5 to 15 inches of snow expected, which means slick roads and dangerous driving.
✔ A mix of rain and snow in some spots, increasing the risk of icy roads.
✔ Flooding possible where rain replaces snow, especially in foothill communities.
📍 Below 4,500 feet (Shasta County & Surrounding Areas)
✔ Heavy rain could cause flash flooding, especially in low-lying areas.
✔ Runoff could impact roads, creeks, and rivers—stay alert for rising water levels.
✔ Flood Watch issued—residents should prepare for water-covered roads and possible closures.
🚨 Why This Storm Is a Big Deal
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Travel Could Be Impossible
- Highway 50, I-80, and other mountain roads could see chain controls, closures, and heavy traffic delays.
- Snowfall rates of 2 inches per hour mean plows won’t be able to keep up—expect long backups if you try to drive through it.
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Dangerous Winds & Whiteout Conditions
- 60 mph wind gusts will blow snow everywhere, making it hard to see—even for experienced drivers.
- If you’re heading to the mountains, be prepared to get stuck.
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Flooding Risk at Lower Elevations
- Heavy rain could lead to flooding in valleys, streets, and rivers.
- If you live near a creek or flood-prone area, have a plan in place.
🚗 Planning to Travel? Read This First!
✔ Avoid mountain travel unless absolutely necessary—this is the kind of storm that leaves people stranded.
✔ If you must drive, pack an emergency kit with blankets, food, water, and a flashlight.
✔ Check Caltrans for real-time road closures and chain requirements.
✔ If you get stuck, STAY IN YOUR CAR! Walking in a blizzard can be deadly.
🚨 Check road conditions before traveling:
- California (Caltrans): quickmap.dot.ca.gov
🏠 Staying Put? Here’s How to Prepare
✔ Stock up on food, water, and essentials—you might be snowed in for a few days.
✔ Charge your phone and have flashlights ready in case of power outages.
✔ Secure outdoor furniture and trash bins—strong winds could send them flying.
✔ Refill prescriptions and check on elderly neighbors to make sure they’re prepared.
⏳ When Will It Be Over?
- Snow will keep falling through Friday night, tapering off Saturday morning.
- Roads will still be dangerous through the weekend—even after the snow stops, it will take time to clear the highways.
- Another storm system could arrive next week, so winter isn’t done with us yet!
This isn’t just another winter storm—it’s a major weather event. Feet of snow, hurricane-force winds, and dangerous roads will make travel extremely difficult, if not impossible.
