Western US Winter Says It's Not Done (Credit: Meteorologist Jessica Olsen)

Image Courtesy: NOAA

DISCUSSION: After nearly two weeks of mild weather, California is expected to see more rain in the forecast, an indication that winter isn’t over quite yet. This week will prove to be tricky as two storms are set in a one – two punch pattern with precipitation set to begin Monday morning, lasting through Wednesday with a possible break for Thursday, being short lived as Friday packs its second punch to Californians.
 
Monday is set to begin with rain in the forecast as an upper level low is apparent in heights as low at 850mb and extending deep to 300mb, this low is showing the classic tell-tale signs of a mid-latitude cyclone with northwest tilting trough, already evident on satellite. This late into winter, is not uncommon for California, however those in the state should be aware that this trough is expected to become stronger as it nears the coast which may bring problematic winds to the area gusting 20-30 knots, higher in some isolated areas. Rain may stifle as the low lifts to the Northeast predominately making Monday's event one to watch regarding winds, as many areas are still cleaning up from this winter’s devastating flooding, winds and landslides. As the trough remains in the area Tuesday will be of some concern as precipitation may become convective at times. 
 
Thursday may prove to be the driest day of the week however due to continued forecast limitations timing from the trough axis and upper level low remains a difficult track. The end of the week will become a difficult end as another upper level low attempts to bring in precipitation associated with a strong frontal boundary from the Northwest. While still several days till Friday this forecast will be one to watch as a possibility for converging upper level lows as they develop in the vicinity of each other, which may change the frontal passage.
 
Stay tuned for more information on California and their everlasting precipitation this winter at the Global Weather and Climate Center!
 
~Meteorologist Jessica Olsen