Unsettled Weather Kicks Off This Friday
California is gearing up for an onslaught of winter weather starting this Friday, January 31, 2025. The state is expected to endure a prolonged period of storminess, with forecasts predicting significant snowfall that could redefine this winter season.
Friday–Sunday: The Warm Surge
Snow Levels to Rise: Snow levels will initially hover around 5500–6500 feet, expected to spike to 8000–9000 feet by Saturday. This elevation increase means that while higher altitudes will see substantial snow, lower areas might experience rain rather than snow.
Continuous Precipitation: A relentless series of showers is set to dominate the weekend, with varying intensity but constant presence.
Mild Temperatures: Despite the winter context, temperatures will remain relatively mild, adding to the complexity of the weather pattern.
Windy Conditions: Strong southwesterly winds will accompany this system, particularly affecting exposed terrains with gusty conditions. Here’s an illustration of the wind forecast for Friday night:
ECMWF 700mb Wind Forecast:
– Direction: Southwest
– Speed: Gusts up to 40 mph
Monday Night–Midweek: A Colder Storm Approaches
Lower Snow Levels: By Monday night, a colder front will push snow levels down to approximately 5000–6000 feet, broadening the area expected to see heavy snow accumulation.
Fluffier Snow: The colder temperatures will bring a change in snow quality, from the dense, wet snow of the weekend to lighter, fluffier snow, ideal for skiing.
Continued Windy Conditions: While winds will remain strong, the peak of the jet stream’s influence might shift south, potentially sparing some areas from the harshest gusts.
Extended Outlook: More Snow on the Horizon
Active Storm Track: Forecast models indicate that the active weather pattern might persist into early February, with conditions favoring more snow and colder than average temperatures.
Preparation Advised: Residents and visitors should prepare for a prolonged period of winter weather, with snow showers possibly lasting into the next weekend.
Snowfall Predictions for Key Resorts
- Sugar Bowl: Expected to see 56–95 inches, setting a high benchmark for this season.
- Kirkwood: Anticipated accumulation of 52–88 inches, potentially making it one of the snowiest spots.
- Palisades Tahoe: Snowfall could range between 50–85 inches, encouraging winter sports enthusiasts.
- Mammoth Mountain: Forecasts suggest 30–52 inches, with variations based on exact elevation.
- Northstar: Predicted to receive 26–47 inches, offering significant snow coverage.
- Heavenly: Snow totals might reach 26–45 inches, impacting both ski runs and local travel.
- Mt. Rose-Ski Tahoe, Nevada: Expected totals of 23–40 inches, with implications for both skiing and road conditions.
Note: These forecasts come with uncertainties, especially for the storm arriving Monday night, and are highly dependent on elevation. Lower mountain regions will likely see less accumulation than what’s predicted for mid-mountain levels.
Prepare for a dynamic weather week, California. Keep an eye on local weather updates, and ensure you’re ready for significant snow impacts on travel, daily life, and outdoor activities.
