More rain and snow are on the forecast for Central California

Forecasts show another storm is heading toward Central California, and with it comes a little more rain, snow and frigid temperatures. 

The expected storm is nothing compared to the series of atmospheric rivers that struck the state throughout late December and January. 

“The majority of this precipitation will fall Sunday afternoon and Sunday evening,” National Weather Service officials in Hanford said. “Travel delays are conceivable. If traveling, allow extra time to reach your destination.” 

Those living or traveling throughout the San Joaquin Valley can expect generally light precipitation, increased winds and cooler temperatures. Although the moisture is expected to be limited, snow levels will drop into the foothills. 

The National Weather Service’s Quantitative Precipitation Forecast shows the Sierra Nevada may see up to one-half of an inch, while the Tehachapi Mountains are expected to receive one-quarter of an inch. 

There is also the possibility of an inch or less of snow along I-5 over the Tejon Pass and along Highway 58 over the Tehachapi Pass above 3,000 feet Sunday. 

Motorists should prepare for slick, icy roads.

Forecasts also show an 80 to 100% chance a large portion of the San Joaquin Valley will see freezing temperatures — 32 degrees or lower — on Tuesday; however, temperatures may drop even lower. There is a 50 to 75% probability of temperatures 28 degrees and lower hitting a good portion of the valley. 

The probability of freezing temperatures drops on Wednesday. 

“For California, this represents a colder but also drier than average pattern,” Daniel Swain, a climate scientist at the University of California, Los Angeles, said. “One that presents essentially zero risk of further flood concerns over the next couple of weeks.”