An active weather pattern continues for central California into the weekend. Daily chances for lightning exist through Monday, with the greatest chances taking place today. Remember: no place outside is safe in a thunderstorm. Heavy valley rain and significant Sierra snow will also peak this weekend. Stay aware! #CAwx

A general risk for severe weather remains for much of central California Saturday and for the northern San Joaquin Valley and central Sierra Nevada Sunday. Isolated showers are expected early Saturday afternoon before a line of heavier rainfall approaches early Sunday morning. Additional scattered showers are expected throughout Sunday with a few thunderstorms possible.

Moderate Fire Risk for fast advancing grass fires. Now through Thursday, winds gusting to 45 mph with worst cast minimum relative humidity as low as 20%. Then Friday through Sunday relative humidity will increase to between 25% and 35%, but wind gusts will increase to 55 mph.

A strong uptick in precipitation and lowering snow levels late Saturday into Sunday morning will bring widespread Moderate to Major winter storm impacts to the Sierra Nevada, mainly above 7,000 feet. A Winter Storm Warning will go into effect for this area starting 5 PM this afternoon and remain in effect until 11 PM Sunday evening.