A fast-moving and potent storm system is going to blast through our area for the start of the workweek, bringing downpours, high elevation snow and gusty winds on Tuesday.
A few light passing showers could develop ahead of the system throughout the day on Monday. Snow levels will be above 10,000 feet during this time.
Rain will then overspread the area on Tuesday as the core of the system approaches. There will be a moderate atmospheric river associated with this system (first map), which should pump some moisture into our area and enhance rainfall potential. Isolated thunderstorms and downpours will develop late morning into the afternoon on Tuesday. Most of the rain will dissipate Tuesday night.
I've included computer projections for rain totals in the second map below. Coastal and inland totals will be around 1", while mountain areas will range from 2-4".
Snow levels will start at 8,000 feet Tuesday morning, then drop to 4,000 feet by Tuesday evening. The system is moving quickly, so accumulations will be somewhat limited in local mountains. However, snow accumulations will be quite impressive in the San Bernardino and Sierra Nevada to the north. I've included computer projections for snow accumulations in the third map below.
Gusty winds will arrive late morning Tuesday and quickly strengthen Tuesday afternoon and evening. I've added computer projections for wind gusts at 6 PM and 10 PM Tuesday in the fourth and fifth maps below. Coastal and Inland gusts will range from 40-45 mph. Mountain gusts will range from 60-75 mph! Winds will slowly diminish through the day on Wednesday.
Another small system will pass on the area Thursday evening into Thursday night. This could bring a few light showers during this time.
