SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A series of storms are setting up to hit this week starting Monday night.
Big travel impacts and even potential flooding is expected throughout the week. This prolonged series of storms will create dangerous conditions in Northern California.
A Wind Advisory is in effect through Tuesday morning for the Southern Sacramento Valley, Northern San Joaquin Valley and Delta with gusts to 50 mph.
A High Wind Warning is in effect for parts of the valley, the foothills and the Sierra with gusts near 85 mph in some areas. Downed trees and power lines could cause widespread power outages.
Additionally, there's a Winter Storm Warning from Tuesday morning through Wednesday morning in the Sierra with 6-30 inches of new snow possible once the snow level drops late in the day Tuesday.
Storm #1 is the most powerful in a string of storms to hit this week. Heavy rain and strong winds are expected through early Tuesday. Rises on small creeks and streams will be possible along with ponding on roads.
Gusty winds develop with the passage of the cold front with possible power outages. There's a slight chance of some isolated thunderstorms during the afternoon.
Snow levels drop overnight Tuesday into early Wednesday to near 4,500-5,500 feet. Rain will be lighter but the snow will make mountain travel difficult with chain controls.
A Winter Storm Warning will be in effect Tuesday through Wednesday for the Sierra.
Storm #2 arrives late Wednesday through early Friday. This is a colder and slightly weaker system but will bring moderate rain and snow to the forecast.
Storm #3 follows directly behind Friday night through early Saturday. This will keep rain and snow in the forecast through New Year's Eve. These storms will impact New Year's weekend so start thinking about how to safely travel to your destination.
A break in the pattern is coming by New Year's Eve night through New Year's Day.
