7:00PM/ 44.1*F/ Clear -Text only report- No Podcast update as I’m in the middle of an upgrade.
Big changes on the horizon as our first major winter storm is fast approaching the coast. The main weather story will be with the Friday system as the cold front moves across the northern interior Friday afternoon and evening. This system does not appear to have a great moisture tap. However, the orographics look relatively impressive as does the upper level jet support. Even 925 and 850 mb winds appear to be ranging between 40 and 50 knots.
Therefore, expect breezy to windy conditions and locally gusty winds with the front which may also help enhance the precipitation totals in the northern mountains and Sierra. Expect that the northern mountains and western slope of the Sierra could range between 1 and 2 inches of liquid with between a 0.3 and 0.75 inches in the valley. This may result in some pretty impressive snow totals for the mountains.
The one hang up is how quickly the cold air will move into the region. Expect snow levels to initially range between 4500 feet and 6500 feet on Friday before falling to between 2500 feet and 3500 feet Friday night. There is the possibility that the coldest air will move into place after the brunt of the moisture has move through which may mean that only the highest elevations of the coastal range and the northern mountains will get a dusting leaving the main interstates and highways relatively unencumbered. However, this will not be the same story for the West Slope of the Sierra where traveling will likely be treacherous at times as one to two feet of new snow will be possible over the highest elevations. Nevada City will likely get a dusting of snow or at the very least see a snow flurry or two. Winter storm warnings have been issued for the Sierra as significant snowfall is likely. Another pacific system will skirt our area on Saturday night bringing with it a quick shot of rain. Sunday looks clear and sunny as the Holiday week promises to be clear but cold.
Tonight: Increasing clouds, with a low around 37. East southeast wind between 5 and 10 mph.
Friday: Showers. High near 48. Breezy, with a south southeast wind between 14 and 22 mph, with gusts as high as 34 mph. Chance of precipitation is 100%.
Friday Night: Showers. Low around 32. South wind 18 to 21 mph decreasing to between 9 and 12 mph. Winds could gust as high as 33 mph. Chance of precipitation is 100%.
Saturday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 50. Calm wind.
Saturday Night: A 30 percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 33. West wind at 6 mph becoming east northeast.
Snow Level- 5,000 FT, lowering to 2,500 FT by Friday night -with 12-18″+ possible at pass level
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