Rain and Heavy Snow Possible in Sierra and Valley Starting Sunday

Sunday will begin cloudy and breezy before rain reaches the valley around noon or early afternoon.

Precipitation will spread into the foothills shortly afterward, becoming steadier through the afternoon and turning moderate late Sunday night into the overnight hours.

In the Sierra, precipitation is expected to reach the mountains around dinnertime Sunday. Snow levels will start near 7,000 feet and drop to around 6,000 feet overnight, with heavy snow possible at times from Sunday night into Monday morning.

Some forecast models indicate steady snow could continue through lunchtime Monday before tapering off in the afternoon. Valley and foothill rain should gradually taper early Monday, though light showers might linger during the morning commute, and a stray shower remains possible throughout the day.

Northern California forecast: Timing for next round of rain and snow on Sunday — KCRA 3

Winds from this system are not expected to be as strong as those recorded during the previous storm, and overall precipitation totals may be somewhat lower. Monday is designated as an Impact Day in the Sierra because the impacts will arrive later and persist longer into the day.

Following a brief break on Tuesday, clouds and winds will return late in the evening as the third system approaches. Rain could arrive as early as Wednesday morning, accompanied by sustained winds of 15 to 25 mph.

NorCal forecast: Sunday is an Impact DAY as round 2 of stormy weather arrives — KCRA 3

This third system carries the potential to be the strongest of the series, bringing wetter and windier conditions that could linger through Thursday. Both Wednesday and Thursday are regional Impact Days.

Snow levels for the third system could begin near 3,500 feet on Wednesday before rising to around 5,000 feet on Thursday. In the Valley, Tuesday will offer a dry recovery day before round three arrives.