Rain and Sierra Snow Return to Northern California This Weekend

Mostly dry weather continues across Northern California through today. High clouds will stream overhead, but little if any rain is expected before later this evening. Temperatures stay mild for late October with no major changes in the short term.

Light rain and mountain snow chances return late this evening through Friday above about 7,500 feet in the Sierra. Accumulations stay light during this first round. A stronger system arrives Saturday into Sunday with cooler air, steadier rain, and more substantial snow above 6,000 to 7,000 feet.

Snow levels start above 7,000 feet on Saturday and lower a bit overnight into Sunday. The heaviest snow is expected above 7,000 feet, with lighter amounts possible down near 6,000 feet. A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from Saturday morning through early Sunday for higher elevations along major routes through the Northern Sierra.

Rain totals remain light in the valleys and Coast Range, generally a trace to a tenth of an inch. The Sierra foothills can pick up a bit more, around a quarter to three-quarters of an inch. Brief heavier downpours and a slight chance of isolated thunderstorms are possible on Saturday as cooler air arrives.

High pressure builds in after the system exits on Sunday, bringing drying conditions and modest warming through early next week. Breezy north to east winds develop Sunday into Monday, strongest across the Sierra. Overall, the pattern turns quieter and a bit milder once the weekend precipitation ends.