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Two Spring Storms to Hit West Coast This Weekend, Bringing Sierra Snow and Thunderstorms

A slow-moving cutoff low brings uncertain timing with higher flood and travel risks.

Soda Springs, CA, USA - January 4th, 2026: Chain Control Sign on Interstate 80 near Donner Pass. This transportation photograph captures a chain control sign on Interstate 80 near Donner Pass, showcasing the essential traffic management system that regulates vehicle equipment requirements during Sierra Nevada winter storms. The composition highlights the regulatory signage that informs drivers when tire chains or four-wheel/all-wheel drive vehicles are mandatory for safe passage through this challenging mountain corridor at over 7,000 feet elevation. Shot to emphasize the critical role these signs play in winter highway safety, the image documents the California Highway Patrol's chain control system that protects both travelers and maintains traffic flow on this vital trans-Sierra route connecting California with Nevada. The photograph captures the intersection of public safety and mountain infrastructure, where chain control requirements represent the ongoing challenge of keeping Interstate 80 passable during severe weather while preventing accidents that could close this critical freight and commuter corridor that carries thousands of vehicles daily through one of the Sierra Nevada's most historically treacherous and weather-prone mountain passes.
Climbing the East side of Donner Pass on Interstate 80 in a Blizzard.
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A measure of instability known as convective available potential energy is expected to be high over the Central Valley on Thursday.

Overview

  • The National Weather Service, which outlined a weaker Friday-into-Saturday wave followed by a stronger Sunday system, expects widespread rain from California to Oregon.
  • A winter storm watch covers the eastern Sierra and Tahoe, with 12 to 28 inches on the Sierra Crest and 6 to 10 inches near lake level as snow levels fall to roughly 4,500 to 6,500 feet.
  • Forecasters flag an elevated thunderstorm risk in Northern California and the Bay Area, including lightning, small hail, gusty and erratic winds, and a chance of rotating storms capable of producing tornadoes.
  • Short, intense downpours could cause localized urban flooding, and interior and mountain zones may see wind gusts reach about 45 to 50 mph.
  • Showers ease late Sunday into Monday, and a drier, more seasonable pattern returns early next week across much of California.