The Storm Prediction Center has put the Sierra Nevada and adjacent foothills under a risk for general thunderstorm today (green, shaded area). These storms will most likely develop between 12 PM and 6 PM this afternoon.

Thunderstorms are possible in the Sierra Nevada this afternoon, potentially extending into surrounding foothills. Small hail and wind gusts near 45 miles per hour can be associated with stronger thunderstorms. In addition to dangerous cloud to ground lightning strikes, any thunderstorm can produce intense rainfall rates, leading to localized flooding.

For the Advisory, gusts up to 55 mph are forecast. For the High Wind Warnings, wind gusts up to 70 mph are forecast. Strong crosswinds pose a threat to high profile vehicles. Both the advisory and the warning are valid through 11 PM this evening.

A High Wind Warning remains in effect for the Mojave Desert Slopes through 11 PM PDT Friday evening. Sustained winds 30 to 50 miles per hour are expected with gusts up to 70 miles per hour possible. Blowing dust will reduce visibility in some locations. Travel will be perilous, especially for high profile vehicles. California Highways 14, 58, and 178 are included in the warning along with the town of Mojave.

Here are the low end (90 percent chance) and high end (10 percent chance) potential snowfall amounts for today through Saturday morning.