INSTRUCTIONS

Slow down and use caution while traveling. The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

Monitor the latest forecasts for updates on this situation.

DESCRIPTION

…MAJOR WINTER STORM TODAY THROUGH SATURDAY…

.A strong winter storm will impact NW California over the next few days. The first impacts will arrive early this morning with strong wind along the North Coast. Snow levels will begin above 5000 feet but quickly drop below 2000 feet this afternoon. Snow levels will continue to drop as low as 500 to 1000 feet early Saturday morning. Heavy snow should be expected on high highway passes.

* WHAT…For the Winter Weather Advisory for elevations above 2000 feet, wet snow expected. Total snow accumulations between 2 and 6 inches on high passes. Winds gusting as high as 55 mph on high terrain.

For the Winter Storm Watch for elevations above 1000 feet, heavy snow possible. Total snow accumulations between 10 and 16 inches possible on high passes. Winds could gust as high as 40 mph on high terrain.

* WHERE…Southwestern Humboldt.

* WHEN…For the Winter Weather Advisory, from 4 PM this afternoon to 10 AM PST Friday. For the Winter Storm Watch, from Friday morning through late Saturday night.

* IMPACTS…Roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous. Travel could be very difficult to impossible. Tire chains may be necessary if travelling through mountain passes. Gusty winds could bring down tree branches. Visibilities may drop below 1/4 mile due to falling and blowing snow. The strong winds and weight of snow on tree limbs may down power lines and could cause sporadic power outages.