National Weather Service United States Department of Commerce

Strong Storm System Brings Heavy Mountain Snow to the Sierra Nevada and Critical Fire Weather Conditions to the Plains

A Pacific storm system will continue to bring low elevation rain and mountain snow to much of the West through Wednesday, with heavy mountain snow expected in the higher elevations of the Sierra Nevada. This system will also bring strong winds to the Intermountain West, Rockies, and Plains, which will create Critical fire weather conditions for the High Plains. Read More >

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Last Map Update: Tue, Apr 21, 2026 at 10:14:13 pm PDT

A low pressure system passing over California will bring some minor impacts to the forecast area. Light rain showers are forecast through the middle of the week. Area peaks and ridgelines will see some mountain snowfall, as snow levels generally stay above 5000 feet. Afternoon and evening thunderstorms are possible on Tuesday and Wednesday. Gusty winds in the Shasta Valley and east side terrain will weaken Monday evening, then return to the east side terrain on Wednesday. Warm and dry conditions may end the week and continue into the weekend.
Rain continues today, and thunderstorm chances (15-30%) spread across most of the area. The most likely timeframe will be between 12 PM-5 PM with lightning, brief heavy rain, and gusty winds as the main threats. New rainfall amounts are forecast to reach 0.25”-0.50” in more areas west of the Cascades, minus the coast. Have outdoor activities scheduled? Make a plan for where to go if a storm develops nearby.

 

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