SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Northern California is preparing for potential severe weather as the KCRA 3 weather team alerts residents to the possibility of thunderstorms on Monday capable of producing heavy rain, hail, and damaging winds. The day also poses a risk for funnel clouds and briefly isolated tornadoes. Expect a wet morning with standing water on some roadways, followed by some clearing midday as sunshine generates instability into the afternoon, leading to the potential for scattered thunderstorms. Snow levels in the Sierra are forecasted to be above 5,500 feet, with more snow expected later in the day. Drivers heading to the Sierra should anticipate chain controls and potential delays.
Rainfall estimates for Monday are .50-1” in the valley, 1-1.50” in the foothills, and 8-12” in the Sierra passes. Showers will persist on Tuesday and Wednesday, with Tuesday being another day to watch for thunderstorms, although the risk for severe weather will be lower than Monday.
Bad weather has already caused problems, with chain controls in place on parts of Interstate 80, and over 1,200 customers without power in the Folsom and Rancho Murieta areas. Additionally, a sinkhole has been reported in Sacramento’s South Land Park neighborhood and an abandoned vehicle was removed from a waterway in Elk Grove.
Residents are urged to stay updated on the latest weather information and road conditions, and take necessary precautions to stay safe during these severe weather conditions. Stay informed about storm impacts and river and creek levels through our social media channels, live forecasts on TV or online, and streaming options.