What you need to know about the storms approaching Sacramento

A series of storms will continue to move through overnight Friday evening into Saturday, bringing with them the possibility of flooding. One concern is that heavy rainfall could melt snow in the Sierra and flood rivers, creeks and streams.

Be prepared for travel delays, zip checks and reduced visibility at times. Slow down on snow-covered roads and wear chains.

Main points:

• Atmospheric river rain, also known as Pineapple Express (warm tropical moisture), especially affecting the Sierra.
• Fluctuating snow levels up to 1000 feet.
• Several rounds of heavy rain.
• Dry New Year’s Day.
• A Flood Watch was issued for parts of the Valley and Delta Friday morning through early Sunday morning.

Time:

• Wednesday: Light rain moves ashore. Moderate mountain snow is forecast tonight through late Thursday night.
• Thursday: The rain takes a break around noon.
• Thursday to Friday: The heaviest rain. Heavy rain will move into the area and continue into Saturday. A flash flood watch is in effect until Saturday.
• Friday: A flash flood watch is in effect until Sunday morning.
• Sunday: Rain eases

Sandbags:

With the risk of flooding, Sacramento County is opening these sandbag sites. Click here to see which places are open. (Information subject to change.)

• District Branch Center
  3847 Branch Center Rd., Sacramento

• Jean Harvie Senior Citizen and Community Center
  14273 River Rd., Walnut Grove

• Jose P. Rizal Community Center
  7320 Florin Mall Dr., Sacramento
• Point Pleasant United Methodist Church
  3329 Point Pleasant Rd., Elk Grove

• Orangevale Community Center
  6826 Hazel Ave., Orangevale
• Sacramento Metropolitan Fire Station #106
  2200 Park Towne Cir., Sacramento

• Sacramento Metropolitan Fire Station #55
  7776 Excelsior Rd., Sacramento
• Westside Park
  6555 West 2nd St., Rio Linda

• Wilton Fire Station

  10661 Alta Mesa Rd., Wilton

• Sacramento Metropolitan Fire Station #55
  7776 Excelsior Rd., Sacramento