Weather: Rain coming to Bay Area; wind, snow heading to the Sierra

Beginning with the Bay Area, rain will bless the city and beyond starting Thursday. However, the system is expected to be a weak one at best. Alas.

However, as NBC Bay Area. reports, “[a] drying trend and cooler temperatures are forecast for the weekend before a third, possibly stronger, system arrives Sunday.” Fingers crossed.

The first major storm of the year will hit the High Sierra on Thursday as well. A strong cold front is anticipated to move into the region, brining with it snow and winds in the 120 MPH range.

“Temperatures are predicted to drop 20 degrees as the storm moves across the region with highs around 30 degrees Thursday night and into Friday,” reports SFGate. “One to two feet of snow is expected at elevations above 7,000 feet, including mountain passes. Five to 10 inches is forecast for lake level, and in the foothills, snow levels could reach as low as 3,500 feet.”

It should go without saying but if you plan on heading up in the region to play in the snow, be sure to slap some chain onto your car tires.

• Light Rain Returns to Bay Area With First of Three Systems This Week [NBC Bay Area]
• First major Sierra storm of the year bringing 120 mph winds and snow below 4,000 feet [SFGate]