First Of Rain Storms Expected To Greet Evening Commuters
SACRAMENTO (CBS13) — The first of a series of much-needed storms is expected to hit the Sacramento region in time for Thursday evening's commute, and snow levels could drop to as low as 1,500 feet in the foothills.
There is still enough trapped cold air that the precipitation reaching the foothills late Thursday morning and into the afternoon will result in low snow levels for a few hours, according to the National Weather Service. Most of this will be light snow or flurries, although there is a wave of precipitation that could give some local areas moderate snow for a short period of time.
Once the winds kick up and the colder air mixes out, the snow level should rise to 5,500 to 6,500 feet.
The more intense storm is expected to come Friday and into Saturday, when rain in the valley and snow in the foothills and mountains could fall for six to 10 hours. Winds are expected to be strongest with this storm as well.
Minor urban and small stream flooding is likely because of the debris in the storm drains and waterways, but the dry soil will help absorb much of the rain water, the weather service said.
After a break on Saturday, a third storm will move through late on Sunday and into Monday, the weather service said.
The last measurable rain in Sacramento fell on Dec. 15 but only brought .007 of an inch.
