MENDOCINO CO., 2/16/26 – A winter storm warning has been issued for northern Mendocino County and Lake County for areas above 2,500 feet as a cold system moves into the region.
The warning is in effect from 10 p.m. Monday through 4 p.m. Wednesday. The National Weather Service expects 4 to 8 inches of snow above 2,500 feet, with locally up to 14 inches possible above 3,500 feet. Wind gusts could reach 45 mph.
We’re tracking storm impacts and updates. Here’s the latest forecast as of Monday evening:
Snow may reach inland valleys late Monday into Tuesday
High temperatures Monday are expected to reach the low- to mid-50s in Ukiah and surrounding valleys before colder air moves in during the evening, the National Weather Service said. Overnight lows will fall into the low to mid-30s, allowing rain to turn to snow in higher elevations.
The National Weather Service says snow could briefly fall at elevations as low as 1,200 to 2,000 feet by Tuesday morning, lower than earlier forecasts suggested. That includes higher stretches of Highway 101 north of Ukiah, such as Ridgewood and Rattlesnake summits, as well as Willits, Potter Valley, Laytonville, Brooktrails and Covelo.
The most significant accumulation is expected above 2,500 feet, with snowfall rates increasing late Monday night through Tuesday morning.
Wind gusts up to 45 mph are possible in higher elevations, increasing the risk of downed tree branches and power lines where heavy snow accumulates.
Rain, hail and rough seas along the Mendocino Coast
Rain is expected along the coast Monday, with a chance of small hail Monday night and Tuesday as colder air moves into the region. Temperatures near 40 degrees could allow hail to briefly accumulate on roadways, creating slick driving conditions.
Breezy conditions are also expected along the coast. Gale warnings are in effect offshore, and seas are forecast to build to 10 to 15 feet Tuesday, creating hazardous conditions for boaters and potentially dangerous surf along northwest-facing beaches. Beachgoers are advised to use caution during periods of rough seas.
Lake County also under winter storm warning
In neighboring Lake County, a winter storm warning is in effect for elevations above 2,500 feet through 4 p.m. Wednesday. Forecasters say 4 to 8 inches of snow are expected above 2,500 feet, with locally up to 14 inches possible above 3,500 feet. Snow could fall to lake level late Tuesday into Wednesday if temperatures cool enough.
There remains uncertainty about how much, if any, accumulation could occur at lake level.
Travel over Cobb Mountain along Highway 175 could become very difficult Tuesday night into Wednesday.
Travel and power outages possible countywide
Travel conditions are expected to deteriorate late Monday night and continue into Tuesday and Wednesday, particularly on Highway 101 north of Ukiah and other higher-elevation roadways.
Roads — especially bridges and overpasses — are likely to become slick and hazardous.
Heavy, wet snow combined with gusty winds could weigh down tree branches and power lines, resulting in downed trees and sporadic power outages.
Additional rounds of rain and occasional snow are possible later Wednesday and Thursday, with another storm system potentially arriving later in the week.
How to stay safe
The National Weather Service, Ready.gov and the American Red Cross recommend avoiding unnecessary travel during heavy snow, slowing down on slick roads and keeping emergency supplies on hand in case of power outages (learn how to stay safe during power outages).
If you must travel, check road conditions before you leave by calling 511 or visiting https://quickmap.dot.ca.gov/.
Drivers heading into higher elevations should carry chains and an emergency kit with warm clothing, water and a flashlight. Residents are also urged to dress in layers and limit prolonged exposure to cold, wet conditions.
Remember to check on your pets and livestock in cold weather, ensuring that water sources are not frozen and that pets are not left outside (find tips on how to protect your pets during cold weather).
More winter weather safety tips are available at:
Mendocino County comprises many microclimates, meaning weather can change quickly over short distances. Find your forecast at http://www.weather.gov.
Thank you!