Wet Across The West Coast Through Christmas

An active weather pattern across the West Coast will lead to rounds of rain and mountain snow today through Christmas Day. 

Rain continues to fall across northern California today through Tuesday, while western Washington will observe rain and mountain snow today into tonight. Rain totals of 1 to 3 inches are expected in northern California, while snow amounts of 3 to 6 inches will occur across the Cascades of Washington and Oregon.

The focus of inclement weather then shifts to a parade of storms that will impact California all the way up into the Pacific Northwest Christmas Eve into Christmas Day. Heavy rain and mountain snow will occur across much of California, leading to major travel delays, while the Pacific Northwest also sees more minor travel delays. 

Rain totals of 2 to 4 inches will be prevalent across much of coastal southern California into the San Joaquin Valley, with locally higher amounts up to 6 to 8 inches in the mountain foothills. This will likely lead to flooding problems, and due to the rain's heavy nature, mudslides are also a potential issue. Rain totals of 1 to 2 inches will be more commonplace across the coasts of Washington and Oregon. 

Flood Watches are in effect across much of California from Tuesday evening into Christmas Day. 

Strong winds will also be a problem along the central coast of California up into the San Francisco Bay area. Wind gusts of 50 to 60 mph will be possible Tuesday evening into Christmas Eve morning. Another bout of stronger winds will also be possible for this area on Christmas morning. 

High Wind Watches are in effect across California's central coast up into the Bay Area for Tuesday evening into Christmas Eve morning. 

Snow will also fall across the Sierra Nevada Mountains much of this upcoming week, leading to 3 to 5 feet in snow accumulations by Friday night for elevations above 7,000 feet. One to 3 feet of snow will be likely for elevations above 5,500 feet. 

Winter Storm Warnings and Winter Storm Watches are in effect for the Sierra Nevada Mountains.  

Be sure to download the WeatherBug app to stay up to date on the latest on this changing weather. It’s never too early to have a supply kit packed in case of inclement weather. A simple kit including a weather radio, water, blankets, batteries, and non-perishable food items will go a long way in the event of a power outage.