Northern California is bracing for a powerful storm as a strong cold front sweeps through the region early Wednesday morning. The storm will bring heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and the possibility of thunderstorms, with the heaviest impacts expected from Del Norte to Humboldt counties. Winds could reach up to 70 mph along exposed coastal areas and the higher terrain, while valleys will see gusts of 20 to 35 mph.
Rainfall is predicted to be substantial, with coastal regions receiving up to 4 inches by Thursday morning. Areas like the King Range and Del Norte’s coastal slopes could experience the heaviest rainfall rates of up to 1.5 inches per hour. Snow is also expected to accumulate at higher elevations, including Scott Mountain Pass, where up to 9 inches could fall. A Winter Weather Advisory has been issued for the Trinity Alps as snow levels drop to 4,000 feet.