Rain, Wind, and Mountain Snow Expected Across North Coast Wednesday Into Thursday

[Crop of a photo taken today in the McKinleyville area by Lloyd Snyder]

Forecasters say the heaviest rainfall is likely Wednesday morning and afternoon, particularly in Del Norte and northern Humboldt counties. Storm totals between late Tuesday night and Thursday afternoon are expected to range from 1 to 3 inches across Humboldt, Del Norte, and Trinity counties, with higher amounts—up to 6 inches—possible in higher terrain. Southern Mendocino and Lake counties are expected to see lighter totals, generally between a quarter inch and half an inch.

Lingering showers are forecast to continue into Thursday.

Snow levels are expected to start between 5,000 and 5,500 feet Wednesday before dropping sharply to 3,500 to 4,000 feet by Wednesday evening, and as low as 2,500 to 3,000 feet by Thursday morning. Most snowfall is expected above 4,000 feet, with up to 16 inches possible in the mountains of Del Norte County and the Trinity Alps.

Travel conditions could become difficult in higher elevations. Along Highway 3 at Scott Mountain Pass, 4 to 6 inches of snow is forecast by Thursday morning. The National Weather Service advises motorists to prepare for slippery roads, carry chains, and expect possible delays in that area.

In addition to rain and snow, gusty winds are expected across the region Wednesday. A Wind Advisory has been issued for Del Norte County from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, with south winds of 20 to 30 mph and gusts up to 50 mph possible, especially along exposed ridges and coastal headlands.

Elsewhere, gusty south winds are expected in Humboldt and Trinity counties Wednesday morning and early afternoon, while Mendocino and Lake counties may see gusty west winds later in the day.

Potential impacts include rises on rivers and creeks, minor flooding in poor drainage areas, downed trees, debris on roadways, and isolated power outages.

Wednesday, April 1, falls on April Fools’ Day, but forecasters say this storm is no joke.