A series of storm systems will allow winter to continue through the end of the week across the western U.S.
Today will feature relatively tranquil weather throughout the West. The exception will be across southern California where an area of low pressure will bring moderate to briefly heavy rainfall today. Rainfall totals up to 1 inch will be possible today from parts of the Los Angeles Basin to San Diego today.
However, the main storm system will impact the West starting on Wednesday and will last through Thursday. This is when plenty of Pacific moisture will rush inland as a large storm system moves onshore.
Moderate to heavy rainfall will be possible in the valleys and lower elevation Wednesday into Thursday, especially across southern California where Flood Watches have been issued. Here, rainfall totals of 0.50 to 1.25 inches will be possible. This rainfall may result in localized flooding, especially in urban areas and over burn scars.
Above 5,000 to 6,000 feet, moderate to heavy snowfall is expected across from the Oregon Cascades through the Sierra Nevada mountains. Snow levels may drop to as low as 2,000 to 3,000 feet by Thursday morning. Winter Storm Warnings and Advisories have already been issued for these areas. Farther south, Winter Storm Watches are in place over the mountains of southern California.
Snow accumulations of 1 to 3 feet will be possible over the higher elevations from Wednesday through Thursday. With the lowering snow levels, snow will likely reach pass levels and cause dangerous travel conditions, especially Thursday morning.
Snow will spread into the Great Basin Wednesday night and into the Rockies Thursday and Thursday night. A sprinkling of Winter Weather Advisories and Winter Storm Watches have been issued across Nevada, with more advisories likely needed in the future.
In addition to the rain and snow, gusty winds will accompany this storm system. Wind Advisories and High Wind Watches can be found across portions of central and northern California into western Nevada where wind gusts of 40 to 55 mph will be possible starting later today and continuing throughout the day on Wednesday.
Another storm system will bring a new round of rain and higher elevation snow to the western U.S. Friday into Saturday, with yet another system will bring the threat for rain and mountain snow across the Northwest to end the weekend.
It’s never too early to prepare for inclement weather. Simply by having an emergency kit equipped with a weather radio, extra batteries, non-perishable food, water, clean clothes and blankets will go a long way in keeping your family safe, warm and protected. Be sure to check the WeatherBug App or your local weather stations to keep informed on the approaching weather.
