California Faces Rare May Winter Storm

winterPhoto byJosh HildonUnsplash

In the recent weekend, California's northern mountains faced a surprising return to winter with heavy snowfall. Mount Lassen reported 31 inches of snow, causing hazardous conditions on the roads in Nevada County and along Interstate 80. Chain controls were implemented for eastbound and westbound traffic, leading to temporary road closures. Despite the wintry conditions, the region is expected to transition back to spring-like weather in the coming week. The snowfall extended to Sacramento County, with various cities experiencing record rainfall amounts, such as Redding, Stockton, Modesto, and Sacramento. The Palisades Tahoe ski resort even celebrated a substantial 26 inches of snow in 24 hours, making it a memorable May powder weekend.

The National Weather Service issued warnings for ongoing winter weather in the Sierra elevations above 5000', emphasizing the need for caution on slick roads. Further bad weather is predicted to move through Northern California, bringing showers and thunderstorms before improving conditions on Tuesday. The unexpected return of winter in California's northern mountains brought significant challenges to the region over the recent weekend. Mount Lassen's 31 inches of snowfall created dangerous conditions on the roads in Nevada County and along Interstate 80, leading to chain controls and temporary closures. Despite this wintry setback, the area is anticipated to shift back to more spring-like weather in the upcoming week, offering relief from the sudden blast of snow.

As the snowfall reached Sacramento County, several cities encountered record levels of rainfall, including Redding, Stockton, Modesto, and Sacramento. The Palisades Tahoe ski resort enjoyed a remarkable 26 inches of snow within 24 hours, making it an unforgettable powder weekend in May. With the National Weather Service cautioning about ongoing winter weather in the Sierra elevations above 5000', it is essential for residents and travelers to remain vigilant on slippery roads. Although more rough weather is on the horizon for Northern California, showers and thunderstorms are predicted before conditions gradually improve by Tuesday.

Source:

https://www.newsweek.com/rare-may-winter-weather-warning-california-1897511