Much of California is bracing for a severe winter storm bringing heavy snow, high winds, and dangerous thunderstorms from the Sierra Nevada to the Coast Range.

Meteorologists warn that up to 8 feet of snow could hit northern Shasta County and mountain passes, with chain requirements already in effect for travelers navigating snowy and treacherous roads.

Pacific Gas & Electric is deploying crews and equipment preemptively using AI-enhanced weather models, while CalOES positions fire and rescue personnel to mitigate flooding and debris flow risks, especially near areas affected by past wildfires.

Storm impacts are already visible: heavy rain in the Bay Area, a fallen eucalyptus tree blocking Highway 101 in Santa Barbara County, and evacuation warnings in Los Angeles neighborhoods vulnerable to mudslides and debris flows.

Local residents, like Wrightwood realtor Kashawna McInerny, are taking personal precautions by trenching yards and installing barriers to divert stormwater, demonstrating proactive preparedness in the face of extreme weather.

The severe conditions extend beyond California, with eastern Colorado, Texas, New Mexico, and Kansas under fire and red-flag warnings due to high winds, dry conditions, and elevated temperatures, highlighting a widespread hazardous weather pattern in the Western U.S.