MENDOCINO CO., 2/13/26 — The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm watch for inland Mendocino County from Monday evening through Wednesday morning, with heavy snow possible above 2,500 feet and snow levels potentially dropping as low as 2,000 feet.
The watch covers northwestern and northeastern Mendocino County, including Brooktrails, Covelo, Willits, Laytonville, Leggett, Piercy, Potter Valley and the Ridgewood (“The Grade”) and Rattlesnake summits on Highway 101.
Snow and travel impacts possible Tuesday
Up to 5 inches of snow is possible above 2,500 feet, with the heaviest snowfall expected early Tuesday morning. Impacted areas could include higher elevations near Laytonville, Leggett and Covelo, along with ridge roads and mountain passes on Highway 101.
Snow levels are expected to drop quickly Monday night into Tuesday, increasing the likelihood of travel impacts. Hazardous driving conditions are possible, particularly during the Tuesday morning and evening commutes, and tire chains may be required in higher elevations. Wind gusts up to 45 mph are possible over ridges and exposed areas Monday.
Rain and flooding potential at lower elevations
Lower elevations, including Ukiah and Anderson Valley, are expected to see periods of rain beginning Saturday night and continuing through much of next week. Thunderstorms and small hail are possible Tuesday as colder air moves into the region.
Rainfall totals of 1.5 to 3 inches are likely across much of the county from Sunday through early Wednesday, with higher amounts in windward terrain. Minor flooding of small creeks, streams and low-lying areas is possible. As of Friday, the Navarro, Russian and Garcia rivers are not forecast to reach flood stage.
Sneaker wave warning along the coast
A sneaker wave warning remains in effect through late Friday night along the Mendocino County coast due to a long-period northwest swell that could produce sneaker waves and dangerous shore break conditions.
Residents can monitor local forecasts and advisories at weather.gov.