MARYSVILLE, Calif. – On Friday, Caltrans announced that winter weather is expected to return to the California valley and the Sierra Nevada over the weekend and into next week, impacting travel in the area.
Caltrans says that this major shift in the weather follows an unusually dry January across California.
The National Weather Service (NWS) is predicting rain showers from Sunday, February 8 through Thursday, February 12. The northern Sacramento Valley, along with its foothills and mountains, is expected to receive the most rain, though the exact timing and amounts remain uncertain.
Caltrans / National Weather Service
Another wet weather pattern is anticipated for the following week. Caltrans is urging motorists to use this dry spell to prepare their vehicles for winter conditions.
Drivers in the valley should expect wet roads, longer travel times, and potential delays. Caltrans advises ensuring headlights and windshield wipers are in good working order and warns against driving through flooded areas.
For those traveling through the Sierra Nevada and higher elevations, Caltrans recommends having a full tank of gas or a full charge, chains, and extra supplies like snacks, water, a blanket, and a flashlight, in case of traffic delays.
Caltrans / National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
Motorists are advised to keep updated by checking the NWS forecast and Caltrans’ QuickMap for road conditions and chain requirements.
The QuickMap app is available on both the App Store and Google Play, and road information can also be accessed through Caltrans’ website or by calling the California Highway Information Network at 1-800-427-7623.
Caltrans District 3 oversees 4,385 lane miles across 11 counties in the Sacramento Valley and Northern Sierra. Updates can be found on X @CaltransDist3 and on Facebook at CaltransDistrict3.