Storm Update: NOAA Issues Rare Blizzard Warning for Northern California
Meteorologists have been trying their best to forecast the storm heading for Northern California, and now they’re saying it could be much worse than initially expected.
The NOAA has upgraded the incoming storm by issuing a blizzard warning for the high-elevation Sierra Nevada region. To give you an idea of the intensity of the situation, it’s only the 5th time the office has issued a blizzard warning since 2008.
The NOAA issued the following statement in lieu of the blizzard warning:
“A Blizzard Warning has been issued for the Sierra Wednesday afternoon through Thursday morning for elevations above 7,000’. Dangerous and potentially life threatening blizzard conditions are possible in the Sierra. Multiple feet of snowfall are expected. Strong winds will produce zero visibility in whiteout conditions along with high drifting snow. Do not attempt to travel as first responders may not be able to rescue you. Travel may already be impossible with several road closures due to heavy snow already being reported. Even a short walk could be deadly if you become disoriented. Avalanche danger will remain high through this storm. This is only the 5th Blizzard Warning from our office since 2008. They are saved for only the most serious situations. Stay home, stay safe! – NOAA Reno, NV today”
Up to 66 inches of snow is expected to fall in that area during the next two days. Lassen Volcanic National Park could see up to 80 inches during that span. Meanwhile, the Sierra Avalanche Center issued an avalanche warning for the Tahoe Basin from 4pm Wednesday through 7am Friday.
It’s going to be a crazy week in NorCal. Please check all road conditions before traveling!
