MENDOCINO CO., 2/15/26 – A winter storm watch previously issued for interior Mendocino County has been replaced with a winter weather advisory as the National Weather Service refines snow levels and timing for a major winter storm expected Monday night through Wednesday.
A watch means conditions indicate significant winter weather, but timing and impacts remain uncertain. An advisory is issued when hazardous winter conditions are expected, though impacts are typically less severe than those required for a winter storm warning.
Tonight: Heavy rain, high snow levels
Moderate to heavy rain is expected Sunday evening, especially in Mendocino and Lake counties. Snow levels are forecast to remain above 5,000 feet through tonight, making for a rainy night for most county residents.
Localized flooding of small streams and low-lying areas is possible. As of Sunday afternoon, the Navarro, Russian and Garcia rivers are expected to remain below flood stage throughout the week.
Monday: Colder air moves in
Colder air will move into the region on Monday. Snow is possible between 3,000 and 4,000 feet in late afternoon as daytime temperatures drop into the 40s across interior valleys. Showers will be prevalent throughout the day.
Monday night into Tuesday: Snow impacts interior communities
The winter weather advisory is in effect from 10 p.m. Monday to 4 p.m. Wednesday for elevations above 2,500 feet in northern Mendocino County, including Highway 101 at Rattlesnake Summit and Ridgewood Summit (“The Grade”), and all of Lake County.
NWS now expects snow between 1,500 and 2,500 feet late Monday night into Tuesday. Snow accumulations of 2 to 4 inches are possible above 2,500 feet, with wind gusts up to 35 mph.
Communities such as Brooktrails, Covelo, Willits, Laytonville, Leggett, Piercy and Potter Valley could see heavier bursts early Tuesday. Some areas may experience a mix of rain and snow, depending on elevation and temperature. Hail is also possible.
Showers and low snow levels are expected to continue into Wednesday and Thursday, though amounts are projected to be lighter. Additional precipitation is possible Friday, with snow at higher levels.
Possible storm impacts and how to be prepared
Heavy, wet snow combined with high winds could bring down tree branches and lead to isolated power outages in higher elevations.
Travel conditions may deteriorate quickly Monday night into Tuesday, especially along mountain passes like Rattlesnake Summit and Ridgewood Summit, which could see accumulating snow.
Drivers may encounter chain controls or temporary road closures, especially in high elevation areas. Travelers heading north to Humboldt, Trinity and Del Norte should use caution, as some areas could see over a foot of snow.
Even at lower elevations, bursts of small hail are possible Tuesday. Accumulating hail can quickly coat roadways and create slick, hazardous conditions.
Residents are encouraged to check road conditions before traveling by calling 511 or visiting https://quickmap.dot.ca.gov/. Allow extra travel time and keep emergency supplies in vehicles if crossing higher elevations.
Mendocino County comprises many microclimates, meaning weather can change quickly over short distances. Find your forecast at http://www.weather.gov.