Brr! Storm System to Bring Heavy Rain and Lower Snow Levels Across Northwest California

[Stock image from the County of Humboldt]

In a travel advisory issued this week, Caltrans District 2 warned that “significant rain and winter weather” are forecast across Northern California through February 19. Snow levels are expected to drop steadily through the next week.

“A cold storm system will lower snow levels to 2000 feet and possibly lower next week,” the National Weather Service in Eureka says. “Snow levels will begin to fall on Monday from around 4500 feet to near 2000 feet on Tuesday into mid next week. Be prepared for snow impacting travel with chain requirements over highway passes.”

“Snow levels are currently forecast to start around 4,000 – 5,000 feet on Sunday and drop to 3,000 feet or possibly lower by earlier in the week,” Caltrans wrote in the advisory aimed at folks from Trinity County to Tahoe. “Motorists should plan for chain controls in higher elevations and are advised to check weather and roadway conditions prior to and during breaks in travel.”

The National Weather Service forecast shows rain developing over the weekend and continuing into the week, with snow possible at higher elevations beginning Monday (Washington’s Birthday) for those closer to the coast. Snow and rain are expected to continue through at least Wednesday, with isolated thunderstorms possible Tuesday.

Humboldt County communities can expect mostly cloudy conditions Friday, followed by increasing rain chances Saturday into Sunday and next week.

Caltrans warned that winter travel could be hazardous in higher elevations in Trinity and eastward.

“Higher elevation travel is discouraged during inclement winter weather,” the agency stated. “Motorists who must travel into higher elevations must carry chains, be prepared for winter driving conditions, expect delays and possible closures, and follow instructions of Caltrans personnel and law enforcement.”

Truck and vehicle screening may occur on northbound Interstate 5 near Fawndale Road north of Redding during the storms.

“Significant rain is also forecast during these storms for valley and lower elevation areas,” Caltrans said.

Drivers should monitor road conditions using Caltrans QuickMap, slow down during storm conditions, and avoid using unmaintained alternate routes during highway closures, Caltrans urged.

Safety Tips for the Upcoming Storms

• Carry tire chains if traveling over mountain passes.
• Expect delays, reduced visibility, and slick roads during heavier rain or snowfall.
• Watch for standing water, debris, and slides during periods of intense rain.
• Allow extra travel time and check road conditions before leaving.
• Avoid travel in higher elevations during peak storm conditions if possible.

You can check real-time road conditions through Caltrans QuickMap or by calling the Caltrans Highway Information Network at (800) 427-7623.

Note: this article was updated at 7:36 a.m. to reflect current predictions