INSTRUCTIONS

If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

Persons should delay all travel if possible. If travel is absolutely necessary, drive with extreme caution and be prepared for sudden changes in visibility. Leave plenty of room between you and the motorist ahead of you, and allow extra time to reach your destination. Avoid sudden braking or acceleration, and be especially cautious on hills or when making turns. Make sure your car is winterized and in good working order.

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 Storm Warning for elevations above 2000 feet, heavy snow expected. Total snow accumulations between 10 and 16 inches for high passes. Winds gusting as high as 50 mph on high terrain.

For the Winter Storm Watch for elevations above 500 feet, heavy snow possible. Total snow accumulations between 20 and 27 inches possible on high passes. 4 to 8 inches as low as 1000 feet. Winds could gust as high as 45 mph on high terrain.

* WHERE…Humboldt Interior.

* WHEN…For the Winter Storm Warning, until 10 AM PST Friday. For the Winter Storm Watch, from Friday morning through late Saturday night.

* IMPACTS…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. Travel could be very difficult to impossible. Tire chains may be necessary if travelling through mountain passes. Gusty winds could bring down tree branches.