Although Sacramento is enjoying a brief break from stormy weather today after two atmospheric river storms doused the region, a third system is expected to arrive tomorrow bringing with it more rain and cold temperatures.
Courtney Carpenter, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Sacramento, said the Sacramento Valley will see close to an inch of rain between Thursday and Friday, which could create more localized flooding of poor drainage areas and significant rises on area waterways.
She said this storm is “a significant snowmaker” noting that snow levels will be fairly low.
“The lowest out of the three systems, down to around 3,000 to 4,000 feet in the Sierra by Friday,” she said. “So again, another period of very difficult mountain travel expected.”
That’s good news for ski resorts like Diamond Peak near Lake Tahoe. The resort received 9 inches of snow during the most recent storm, 5 of which fell in the last 24 hours. Paul Raymore with the resort said the snowfall was much-needed as this hasn’t been “the snowiest of seasons so far.”
“Any new snow is positive news for us here in Lake Tahoe, and certainly at the ski resorts,” he added.
Although the resort has only received 106 inches of snowfall this season, Raymore said the beautiful weather has allowed for snow grooming and views of the lake.
“One of the things we’re known for here at Diamond Peak is beautiful views of Lake Tahoe,” he said. “So when the sun’s out and the sky is clear, it’s beautiful views and people are generally having a great time.”
He cautioned people to be careful when commuting from the valley and Bay Area if they’re interested in skiing.
“Carry chains in case chain controls go into effect, get emergency supplies in your vehicle and be patient,” he said. “It’ll take a bit longer to get up here. Patience definitely pays off. The last thing you want to do is kind of push the envelope and end up in a ditch or on the side of a highway.”
But when the storms clear, he said skiers and snowboarders will enjoy the conditions. The resort anticipates the fresh snow and President’s Day weekend later this month will bring in one of the busiest times of the year.
“Know that once you get to the resorts, there’ll be plenty of powder here waiting at Diamond Peak and other resorts for everyone to go around and conditions should be really good after the storm cycle,” he said.
Visit the National Weather Service’s website to stay updated as the storm moves through the region.
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