Up to 8 Feet of Snow Expected This Presidents’ Day Weekend as Northern California Faces Severe Snowstorm: What You Need to Know

Northern California is expecting some of the worst snowstorms of the season as spring-like temperatures quickly change back to winter chills. Presidents Day weekend will see a major storm system begin to make its way towards the Sierra Nevada mountains. Heavy snowfall is forecast to come with dangerously poor travel conditions. Snow conditions will begin to worsen, with a complete “whiteout” expected to be in effect by Sunday night. For this reason, meteorologists advise travel as soon as possible.
Severe Snowfall Predictions for the Sierra Nevada
The wide area of effect winter storm watches issued by the National Weather Service are expecting snowfall of numerous feet, enough to cause total shutdown of transportation options for days to weeks. The forecast for the Sierra Nevada is 8 feet of snow expected to come with the greatest intensity. The storm is expected to be the worst of the season. Elevations 3,000-4,000 ft are expected to see 1-2 feet of snow. Extreme snow accumulation is expected above the peaks, in Blue Canyon, with 6-8 feet of snow expected.
These numbers are impressive for Northern California, where heavy snowstorms take place, but never to this extent. Travel through mountain passes is expected to become hazardous, or even impossible, by Monday, when this storm is expected to peak.
Travel Advisories and Extreme Visibility
Travelers are advised by South Lake Tahoe officials to try to reach their destinations in the region by Sunday afternoon. Significant storm impacts are predicted to cause extreme visibility, drifts, and icing until close to whiteout conditions due to blown snow. This makes driving dangerous. Most of the roads in the Sierra are expected to be closed, including the primary travel corridors, I80 and Hwy 50, which are expected to close due to significant storm conditions.
Travelers are expected to experience anxiety and be prepared for the worst, as the visibility will be incredibly poor. Expect delays and dangerous driving conditions.
Driving on Monday is expected to be dangerous and may be nearly impossible due to accumulating snow and numerous road closures throughout Northern California. Snow is expected to cause significant delays.
The Shasta County Sheriff’s Office has additionally issued an advisory stating that those in Shasta County should prepare for upcoming adverse weather conditions. This includes securing the home, adjusting vehicles for winter driving, and stocking up on essentials. Have snow chains and an emergency kit on hand, and ensure winter driving gear is ready.
Snowstorm Impact to Spread Beyond California
The scope of the weather event includes portions of Shasta County and Northern California’s neighboring states. Travel restrictions and delays will occur in western Nevada and southern Oregon as the storm moves east and creates travel mayhem across state borders. The Shasta County and Lake Tahoe areas will see the most severe weather, and the storm will affect the majority of the Sierra Nevada and surrounding regions.
Impact of the Storm on Travelers 
Travelers planning a Presidents Day getaway or those choosing ski resorts in the northern part of California are advised to travel early, considering the unfavorable weather. Sunday morning and midday are expected to be the best time to travel, as Sunday afternoon will see a rapid increase in travel hazards. Northern California will be experiencing a winter storm on Monday, and those in the area planning to travel will face delays and increased hazardous travel.
Along the routes to the mountains, such as the one in Blue Canyon, risks will increase as 6 to 8 feet of snow falls in rapid succession. People heading into the northern parts of California should prepare to have their travel plans stopped as passable roads will become impassable around Sunday evening.
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