CALIFORNIA, USA — The remainder of October will be a mix of classic fall weather, combined with rapid changes leading to a few systems threatening the area with rain and snow. There will be many adjustments to the forecast between Wednesday and next week which is when we expect most of the changes.
This week continues to be dominated by cold mornings in the 40s and 50s followed by a fairly rapid rise to temperatures in the 70s and low 80s by the late afternoon. Dry air allows for big swings in the temperatures but can be problematic when strong winds enter the forecast and result in fire conditions. At this point, wind could create fire conditions but only at higher elevations on Wednesday.
This pattern will continue for the rest of the week and Saturday as well.
Beginning Sunday afternoon we will see a system start to impact the Sierra with scattered light rain. As it gets colder Sunday night to Monday, the snow level will drop to 6500 feet and lower. We could see light snow over the major passes like I-80 and Highway 50. If you are traveling from Sunday to Monday you should monitor weather changes and chain control potential.
Following that initial system comes another round of dry, north wind for a few days until Thursday.
Thursday happens to be Halloween and is of high interest for anything outdoors. At this point, people can expect cooler weather with clouds in the Valley and another chance for rain in the Sierra. There is also a chance for snow as well. The big question and risk is for rain to drift to the valley in the timeframe as well.
The computer models have been struggling with a unified forecast for this, so at this point, it warrants monitoring for changes with timing, totals, and the chance it doesn't happen as well. Many things can change in the 7-10 day forecast window.
Watch more on ABC10 | California Weather | A chance for snow and much cooler forecast ahead
