Mountain snow returns early, mix across the high desert at times

A Winter Weather Advisory has been issued by the National Weather Service for the Cascades and East Face, possibly 2 - 3". Not much is expected across the high desert, but we can't rule out a stray flake or two this afternoon.

Sunday will be a bit milder and there is a better chance for some light rain and snow to mingle together during the day.  This will be light rain and drizzle for the most part, so keep the rain gear handy, but don’t change any plans. Highs will be in the 50s keeping the snow confined to the Cascades.

The wet period will continue into the first part of the new work week.

Monday will also be rainy with the mercury in the thermometer hitting the 50s once again. The rain will be light as well, but a bit more widespread than Sunday. This pattern will linger into Tuesday as well. A weak atmospheric river could be developing late Monday and the rain for the two day period of Monday and Tuesday may lead to some minor flooding by the time all is said and done late Tuesday.

An interesting meteorological note, the reason for the precipitation is due to two, or maybe three, low pressure cells will orbit off the coast for about a 72-hour period. Each will usher in the precipitation from the southwest. This will keep the rain train going along with the milder conditions. High pressure well inland will prevent the lows from moving onshore, so they eddy off the coast until they finally dissipate later in the week.  As mentioned above, an atmospheric river sets up for Tuesday that helps the systems “rain out” and the blocking high will be forced to exit to the east.

Please, Stay safe.

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