Winter Storm Impacting West Coast

The last weekend of 2023 will start with areas of rain and mountain snow throughout the West. 

A last in a parade of winter storms continues to march across Washington, Oregon, and California today. Mild air ahead of this system will keep most areas as rain, while some snow falls across the highest elevations. 

The storm will gradually wind down across the West today, with the heaviest precipitation from this system expected to head through northern and central California. Widespread rainfall of 1 to 2 inches will be seen, with higher amounts of 2 to 4 inches along the immediate coast of northern and central California and along the upslope parts of the Sierras.

Moderate to heavy snow will also impact the higher elevations of the Sierras through this evening. Snow amounts of 2 to 6 inches will be common, with higher amounts around 12 inches possible above 7500 feet elevations. A Winter Weather Advisory is in place for this snow, which will also be accompanied by breezy to windy conditions.

Rain and snow will not be as intense across the western portions of Washington and Oregon. Rain amounts will generally be under 1 inch, though a few localized spots of 1 to 2 inches are possible near the coast. Snow will also be in shorter supply, with only the highest peaks of the Cascades receiving several inches of snow through today.

It will be breezy in some areas as well, though winds will remain below advisory levels today across northern and central California. Still, a few wind gusts of 25-35 mph will be possible, especially over the higher elevations. 

Wind, rain, and snow are not the only threats either, with dangerous surf creating hazardous impacts along the coast. A High Surf Warning is in effect for the central coast of California from Point Reyes down to Monterey due to waves up to 40 feet tall causing coastal flooding and erosion in some areas. High Surf Warnings are also in effect this morning along the central and southern Oregon coast, with High Surf Advisories are also in effect this morning along the northern California coast.