MARYSVILLE – An active weather month of February continues this week as another strong winter storm is heading toward the Sacramento Valley and Sierra Nevada that will impact the region starting tonight, creating challenging travel conditions Thursday and Friday.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Flood Watch for the Sacramento Valley and Delta with 1-2.5 inches of rain possible. In the foothills, 2-5 inches of rain is possible under 4,500 feet elevation. The NWS has issued a wind advisory from 10 p.m. Wednesday through 10 a.m. Friday with gusts up to 40-50 mph expected.
For the Sierra Nevada, the NWS has issued a Winter Storm Warning for areas above 4,500 feet from 10 p.m. Wednesday through 10 p.m. Friday. The NWS is forecasting up to 15 inches of snow between 4,500-6,000 feet with 2-5 feet of snow above 6,000 feet and gusty winds up to 60 mph. Travel in the mountains is highly discouraged during this period as white-out conditions are possible.
Motorists traveling in the Valley should be prepared for wet weather, additional travel times and delays. Caltrans advises that vehicles have properly functioning headlights and windshield wipers and not to drive through flooded roads. Motorists traveling into the Sierra are encouraged to have a full tank of gas or full charge, chains and extra supplies in the event of an emergency or if traffic is held for an extended period. Those supplies should include snacks, water, a blanket and a flashlight. Chain controls should be anticipated.
Motorists are encouraged to check Caltrans’ QuickMap before traveling for current road conditions and chain requirements or download the QuickMap app from the App Store or Google Play. Road information is also available on Caltrans’ website or by calling the California Highway Information Network automated phone service at 1-800-427-ROAD (7623).
