Rain is expected to begin in the Modesto area on New Year’s Eve and continue through Thursday, with up to 0.75 inches possible over the period, according to the National Weather Service. Less than 0.1 inches of rain is forecast for Wednesday afternoon, followed by a quarter-inch to half-inch overnight. An additional 0.25 inches could fall during daylight and evening hours on January 1.
There is a 50% chance of rain on Friday, though no specific amount has been projected. Rain is likely over the weekend, with more possible Monday and Tuesday.
Authorities are advising drivers to slow down and watch for spot flooding due to wet roads. Those traveling to snow-covered areas such as Tuolumne County should ensure their vehicles have proper tires and remain alert for hazards.
Law enforcement will be increasing patrols to watch for impaired drivers during New Year’s celebrations. The California Highway Patrol announced extra enforcement from 6 p.m. Wednesday through 11:59 p.m. Thursday.
“As we welcome the New Year, let’s commit to making smart choices,” said a Facebook post by the Modesto-area office. “Buckle up, slow down, stay focused, and if you’re celebrating, always plan for a sober ride.”
Since July 1, downtown Modesto has received 5.26 inches of rain, according to the Modesto Irrigation District (MID). This exceeds the historical average of 4.33 inches through December; annual average rainfall is typically about 12.16 inches.
Local water suppliers depend heavily on snowpack in the central Sierra Nevada for their supply. The snowpack was only at 14% of average in mid-December but increased to 77% after storms during Christmas week, based on data from the California Department of Water Resources.
The department uses hundreds of automated devices across mountain ranges like the Sierra Nevada to measure snow levels and also conducts manual measurements monthly at locations such as Phillips Station near Lake Tahoe.
At Phillips Station this week, snowpack measured just half its usual level for this time of year; statewide it stood at about 70%, state hydrometeorologist Angelique Fabbani-Leon reported.
“We’re going to be really looking forward to additional storm systems,” she said, “especially during that January through March period. It’s still early in the season, and there’s time to catch up”.
Major highways including Highway 50 remain open through winter thanks to regular plowing; Highways 80 and 88 also provide access in the Tahoe region. In contrast, upper mountain routes closer to Stanislaus County close each winter—Highway 4 remains open just east of Lake Alpine; Highway 108 extends about seven miles east of Strawberry; Highway 120 closes at Crane Flat but connects with Yosemite Valley roads.
Dodge Ridge Mountain Resort off Highway 108 opened its season Saturday following recent snowfall and expects rain on New Year’s Day before drier weather gives way again to snow later in the weekend.
The Sacramento Bee contributed reporting for this story.
