SACRAMENTO, Calif. – A strong Pacific storm moved across Northern California on Thursday, delivering soaking rain, gusty winds, and high-elevation snow across the Valley, Foothills, and Sierra regions. Meteorologists with KCRA 3 issued an Impact Day alert as the system disrupted travel and outdoor activities through the afternoon and evening hours.
Steady Rain Across the Valley
By Thursday evening, steady rainfall that began early in the day was tapering to scattered showers across the Sacramento Valley, though roads remained slick and visibility poor. Motorists were advised to watch for standing water and localized flooding, especially after dark.
As of 3 p.m. Thursday, many locations in the Valley had recorded more than one inch of rainfall, with totals expected to approach 1.5 inches by late evening. Areas south of Sacramento and along Interstate 5 saw heavier pockets of rain, slowing evening commutes.
“It’s a good soaking for the Valley,” said KCRA meteorologist Tamara Berg. “We’re seeing steady rain, gusty winds, and the kind of travel impacts that warrant extra caution, particularly overnight.”
Snow Arrives in the Sierra
As colder air filtered into the region Thursday night, snow levels began dropping to around 6,500 feet, bringing slushy accumulation to mountain passes such as Donner Summit and Echo Summit.
Forecasters expect a few inches of snow in higher elevations, enough to trigger chain controls and minor travel delays along Interstate 80 and Highway 50 through early Friday morning.
The Sonora and Ebbetts Passes are likely to receive the heaviest snow totals, while lower elevations will mainly experience rain mixed with light snow.
“Moisture is tapering off as colder air arrives, but we’ll still see a few hours of slushy snow on the summits,” Berg noted. “Travelers should prepare for slick conditions and reduced visibility.”
When chain controls are in effect, the speed limit drops to 30 mph on I-80 and 25 mph on Highway 50.
Gusty Winds and Coastal Impacts
Along with rain and snow, the storm system brought gusty winds, with speeds between 20 and 35 mph in the Valley and higher gusts through mountain passes. Coastal areas and ridge tops reported wind gusts nearing 45 mph, prompting advisories for high-profile vehicles.
The cool, unstable air behind the front is expected to bring scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms into Friday morning before the system moves east.
Looking Ahead
Friday morning will remain damp across much of Northern California, but conditions are forecast to gradually improve through the day as showers taper off.
Skies are expected to partially clear by Saturday, with temperatures slowly rebounding into the 60s in the Valley and 40s in the Sierra. However, another weak system could bring light rain and mountain snow early next week, keeping the region unsettled.
Residents are encouraged to check road conditions before traveling and to stay updated on weather changes through official channels.
For live traffic updates, visit Caltrans QuickMap, and for real-time Doppler radar, refer to local broadcast partners and weather apps.
Stay with HonkNews.com for continued coverage of Northern California’s storm system, including updated rainfall totals, travel advisories, and weekend weather forecasts.