Heavy Weather Expected by Midday Monday

Rain is expected to hit Benicia around noon today according to the National Weather Service. 

According to Weather.com, the agency issued a "Special Statement" on Sunday at 3:03 p.m. about severe weather forecast for this week:

Two cold fronts will sweep across northern California this week. Rain showers will spread across the region Monday and Monday night along with breezy winds.

* Impacts... snow levels may briefly drop to around 8500 feet including higher sierra passes and Lassen Peak by Monday night. Only expect a light dusting of snow.

A stronger cold front will spread periods of moderate to heavy rain across the region Tuesday night into Wednesday. Expect gusty southerly winds and temperatures to drop 10 to 20 degrees below normal.

* Snow levels may drop to around 6000 feet late Tuesday into Wednesday with accumulating snow possible at sierra pass levels and around lessen park. Winter traveling conditions are possible at these locations. * Liquid precipitation totals will range from one-quarter inch to three quarters of an inch over the valley and one to three inches across the west slope of the Sierra Nevada. * Wind gusts of 15 to 30 mph are expected in the valley and lower foothills with gusts of 30 to 50 mph over ridges in the mountains. * Isolated thunderstorms are possible Wednesday afternoon over the Sacramento and northern San Joaquin valleys.

Motorists should be alert for slick roads due to the first rain of the season along with accumulated oil on the roadways. Be prepared for snow and wind across the sierra. Gusty winds could lead to fallen leaves and debris clogging up storm drains causing localized street flooding. Some power outages could occur should branches or small trees fall and damage power lines. Small stream and urban flooding may also occur during periods of moderate to heavy rain, which could impact road travel.

Continue to monitor national weather service forecasts and statements for updates on this developing unsettled weather.