Northern California residents are advised to prepare for a tumultuous weather weekend, as showers and fluctuating snowfall are expected to sweep the region starting Friday evening and persist through Sunday. The meteorologists at KCRA 3 have designated Saturday as a weather Impact Day, with thunderstorms predicted in the Valley and snowfall anticipated in the Sierra. Motorists should also be prepared for chain controls.

According to current forecasts, snow levels will initially begin at approximately 7,000 feet on Friday night before gradually dropping to around 5,000 feet by Saturday morning. Rain showers have already commenced in the Valley as of Friday afternoon. Rainfall accumulations are estimated to range between 0.25 to 0.75 inches from Friday through Sunday. Fortunately, by Sunday afternoon, the rain and snow are expected to dissipate, providing some respite for residents in the affected areas.

For those planning to travel during this inclement weather, it is crucial to monitor road conditions closely. Caltrans' QuickMap app provides real-time updates on road closures and chain control information, ensuring motorists can plan their journeys accordingly. In particular, westbound traffic on I-80 was halted temporarily in Truckee due to multiple spinouts over Donner Summit, marking a challenging start to the weekend. However, as of 7:35 a.m. Saturday, westbound traffic has been cleared over Donner Summit, although chain controls remain in effect from Truckee to Drum Forebay on I-80 in both directions, with trucks under maximum restrictions.

Residents are advised to stay updated on changing weather conditions and chain control information from the KCRA weather team on social media. Chief meteorologist Mark Finan, meteorologists Tamara Berg and Dirk Verdoorn, and climate reporter Heather Waldman provide regular updates and insights on Facebook and Twitter. Furthermore, forecasts can be viewed on TV or online, with the latest video forecasts accessible on the KCRA website and livestreams available for the latest newscasts on the Very Local app for Roku, Apple TV, or Amazon Fire TV.

As Northern California braces for the weekend deluge of rain and snow, it is crucial for residents to take necessary precautions and remain informed about potential travel disruptions. Stay safe and stay dry, Northern California.