Winter Storm-California
FILE - Dr. Gabe Lewis, a research scientist, measures snow depth and mass to calculate density and snow water equivalent at Central Sierra Snow Lab in Soda Springs, Calif. on Monday, Jan. 5, 2026.
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A winter storm watch was issued by the National Weather Service for parts of northern California this holiday weekend. Meteorologists expect a cold weather system to bring a foot of snow to communities in the area. But towns situated in higher elevated areas could see up to 8 feet of snow, based on predictions by the National Weather Service. As people travel for the holiday weekend, the weather service warns of “major travel impacts.” However, conditions remained good Saturday, giving travelers a window of time to get to their destinations before they face significant delays and road closures.
California is bracing for a powerful winter storm anticipated to bring thunderstorms, strong winds, and heavy mountain snow. National Weather Service meteorologist Jacob Spender in Sacramento urged people to take precautions in the coming days. He says that if people are traveling, then they should be packing winter safety kits. Winter storm warnings were in place from southwest Oregon to the Southern California border. PG&E says it is using AI and machine-learning weather models to position crews and equipment before the storm hits. Meanwhile, state emergency officials are deploying rescue resources for flooding and debris flows. Forecasters expect extreme Sierra snow through late Wednesday.
