A major winter storm is expected to coat sections of Northern California with up to 4 feet of snow by Tuesday night, triggering a Winter Storm Watch for places above 4,000 feet, including Chester, Quincy, and Blue Canyon.
According to the National Weather Service in Sacramento, the watch is in force from Sunday evening to Tuesday evening. The biggest snowfall is forecast on Monday, with rates approaching 2 inches per hour. Snowfall can range from 1 to 3 feet, with higher summits receiving up to 4 feet. Gusty winds of up to 55 mph may further impair visibility and raise the risk of tree damage.
Travel may become extremely dangerous or perhaps impossible in sections of the West Slope Northern Sierra Nevada and Western Plumas County, particularly during Monday morning and evening commutes. Snow levels are forecast to fall to 3,000 feet by early Tuesday, with modest accumulations of 1 to 4 inches in lower elevations.
Drivers are encouraged to monitor real-time conditions using Caltrans QuickMap at quickmap.dot.ca.gov or by calling 511. Officials recommend delaying travel if possible and carrying emergency winter kits in vehicles.
Residents should prepare for potential power outages, traffic closures, and rapidly changing weather conditions.