Cooling with Afternoon Showers

Weekend Showers:

We are starting off the weekend with some sun Saturday morning and temperatures warming into the 50s by afternoon. Moisture moving in over the weekend will allow for some afternoon showers to pop up over the Sierra, and possibly over the mountain starting Saturday afternoon.

Sunday afternoon likely has a better chance to see some afternoon showers. Snow levels could dip to around 8000-8500 ft. under any steadier showers that move through. Highs in the 40s for the higher elevations and 50s for the lower elevations.

Monday – Tuesday System:

Monday into Tuesday the weak system near the West Coast moves east through the region. That will bring us a better chance for morning as well as afternoon showers, along with some colder air.

The snow levels are expected to stay above 8000 ft. but they could dip slightly Monday afternoon/evening under any heavier showers. The very top of the mountain could pick up 1-3 inches by Tuesday morning, with just rain expected for the lower mountain.

Highs only in the 30s for the higher elevations on Monday and 40s for the lower elevations. Then warming back into the 40s on Tuesday with 50s near the base, as the system begins to clear the region. But lighter showers are still possible on Tuesday.

This time of year, with afternoon showers being enhanced by daytime heating, causing convection, there is always a chance for lightning as well. So don’t be surprised if the lifts get closed a time or two if there is any nearby.

Milder Pattern:

By Wednesday high pressure is forecast to be building over the region, and that pattern could stick around through next weekend, and through the middle of May.

That pattern would be drier with less of a chance for afternoon showers to pop up, but there’s still a slight chance some days. It’s also a milder pattern with temperatures warming into the 50s for the higher elevations and 60s for the lower elevations starting Wednesday. Possibly a bit milder by the weekend.

We will have to see how long into May the snow on the upper mountain will allow the skiing to continue, especially as we head into what looks like a typical May pattern later in the week with sunny and mild weather.

BA