The National Weather Service has issued a comprehensive advisory detailing the imminent extreme winter storm impacts expected in the Sierra Nevada region above 5,000 feet, as well as heavy rainfall projections for areas below 5,000 feet, including the adjacent foothills and the San Joaquin Valley. Additionally, strong to damaging southeast to south wind gusts are anticipated during the storm period across Fresno, Hanford, Visalia and Merced.
The forecast indicates that the Sierra Nevada region above 5,000 feet will experience extreme winter storm conditions from Saturday night through Sunday night, with snow loads and snow amounts reaching up to six feet. This heavy snowfall poses significant hazards for travelers and residents in higher elevations.
Furthermore, excessive rainfall is expected in the Sierra Nevada below 5,000 feet and adjacent foothills, raising concerns for potential flash flooding from Saturday night through Sunday night. The combination of heavy rainfall and melting snow may lead to dangerous conditions, including rapid rises in creeks, streams, and low-lying areas.