Incoming Winter Storms Expected to Impact Valley, Mountain Travel

MARYSVILLE — Fresh off a drenching of rain in the Valley and snow in the Sierra, Caltrans is alerting motorists about two more winter storms set to arrive in the Sacramento Valley and Sierra Nevada this week, with the first impacting the region tonight that will create challenging travel conditions throughout the week ahead.

For the Sacramento Valley and the foothills, a National Weather Service (NWS) Flood Watch Advisory has been issued from 4 p.m. today through 4 a.m. Tuesday with 2-4 inches of rain forecasted for the Valley and Delta, and 3-8 inches of rain possible in the foothills. Additional periods of moderate to heavy rainfall is expected for the rest of the week. A wind advisory is in effect until 4 p.m. Tuesday with gusts up to 45 mph expected.

For the Sierra Nevada, a NWS Winter Storm Warning has been issued for areas above 5,500 feet through 10 a.m. Wednesday. The NWS is forecasting 1-3 feet of snow with gusty winds up to 60 mph. Snowfall rates of 1-2 inches per hour are possible with near white-out conditions at times. Travel in the mountains is highly discouraged during this period.

A second, colder storm is expected to arrive Wednesday, with snow levels starting around 5,000 feet and lowering to 3,000 feet by Friday.

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 of time. Those supplies should include snacks, water, a blanket and a flashlight. Chain controls are 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).

Caltrans District 3 is responsible for maintaining and operating 4,385 lane miles in 11 Sacramento Valley and Northern Sierra counties. The department will issue updates on X @CaltransDist3 and on Facebook CaltransDistrict3.