1st of series of storms moves into Central CA, bringing rain and snow

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- After almost a month of seeing no rain in Central California, a series of storms will bring a soggy stretch of weather into the region over the next week.

Central Valley residents woke up to rain as the first storm arrived overnight on Thursday. Widespread rain hit the area as drivers headed out for their early commute.

The rain is expected to last throughout Thursday morning. ABC30 Meteorologist Madeline Evans says the Valley floor could see about a quarter-inch of rain

Snow will also fall over the mountain communities throughout the day. A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 7 pm on Wednesday to 4 pm on Thursday.

Five to 12 inches of snowfall in elevations above 5,000 feet were expected on Thursday.

It's a quick-moving storm, though, with most of the Valley drying out by 4 pm on Thursday.

The weekend will remain mostly quiet, but the cold front will drop our temperatures. A freeze watch is in place starting Friday at 11 am through Saturday at 9 am with temperatures dropping below freezing.

By Sunday afternoon, the rain returns with another storm.

Madeline Evans says an Accuweather Alert is in effect for Monday and Tuesday due to the widespread rain in the Central Valley and snow in the mountains.

The Valley floor is forecasted to see two to three inches of rain, and the foothills could see five to six inches.

Snow totals increase during this second storm, too. Yosemite could possibly see 88 inches, Shaver Lake 20 inches, and Sequoia National Park could see 71 inches.
"We absolutely need this rain and snow. However, when we get so much of it so quickly, we are looking at the potential for hazardous driving conditions in the mountains and some flooding in the Valley," said Madeline Evans.

A third system will move through next Wednesday afternoon after a short break in the morning. The rain will continue next Thursday but dry out by Friday.

ABC30's Accuweather team is tracking the storms and will continue to provide the latest updates.