KEY POINTS
- Successive Pacific storm systems will impact California starting this Sunday.
- Forecasters predict some areas may receive a full month of precipitation in one week.
- Heavy mountain snow and flash flooding could create major travel disruptions.
Atmospheric patterns are shifting to bring a barrage of powerful storms to the Western United States. Residents across California should prepare for a significant period of wet weather beginning in the middle of February. Meteorologists warn that these incoming systems could deliver a month’s worth of rain and snow in just a few days.
The active weather cycle begins late this week as a storm moves south from the Gulf of Alaska. Rain will first arrive along the coasts of Washington and Oregon before pushing into California. By Sunday night, drenching rain will likely saturate the northern and central parts of the state. The moisture will then expand toward Southern California and the interior West.
This series of storms arrives as many western regions face critical moisture shortages. Experts note that snowpack levels in Utah and Colorado have recently hit record minimums. This lack of frozen water poses a threat to the Colorado River basin and its 40 million residents. The upcoming storms offer a necessary boost to these dwindling water supplies.
However, the benefits of the moisture come with serious safety risks. Heavy downpours may trigger flash flooding and mudslides in low-lying areas. In the mountains, several feet of snow are expected to accumulate. Travelers should anticipate dangerous conditions on major routes, particularly over Donner Pass along Interstate 80.
Aviation and ground shipping sectors are bracing for inevitable delays. Poor visibility and slick roads will likely impact commutes throughout the first half of next week. While California faces the brunt of the initial systems, another storm may follow closely. This subsequent system could refocus heavy precipitation on the Pacific Northwest.
This transition to cold and wet weather follows an unusually warm winter season. Seven western states recently marked their warmest December and January periods on record. The sudden shift to winter intensity marks a dramatic change for the region. Emergency officials advise residents to monitor local updates as the first front approaches this weekend.
