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The National Weather Service is calling it a strong winter storm.
Rain and snow is expected across most of Northern California starting Wednesday night and early Friday. Forecasters are calling for one-to-two-feet of snow around 5,000 feet, and are expecting conditions to intensify Thursday night, saying there is potential for whiteout conditions. Meteorologists insist travel is not advised during the high weather advisory. Up to 3 feet of snow could also fall in some of the higher elevations. In the valley, rain cells have been producing heavy downpours Thursday morning, as well as lightning and thunder. The rain will most likely extend in more storms into the night, and taper off by Friday morning. In the foothills, rainfall totals are expected to be 2 inches and 3 inches between Wednesday night and Friday afternoon.
The CHP says drivers should be ready for delays and hazardous mountain travel with reduced visibility and chain controls.