A series of major winter storms will bear down on the area next week with significant valley rain and mountain snow expected. Snow levels should be the lowest season to date, with the potential for 'feet' of snow. Still looking at some mid-level moisture and instability around today for some afternoon clouds even a few sprinkles are possible. Otherwise, partly cloudy, cool and breezy with highs in the mid-40s, west to northwest winds gusting 10-20 mph through this afternoon, decreasing this evening. Mostly clear skies tonight as lows drop into the mid-20s. The weekend actually looks like, we'll call it the calm before the storm, and time to prepare for our weather next week. Daytime highs will reach the upper 40s to around 50 degrees both on Saturday and Sunday, while overnight lows drop into the mid-20s. A bit breezy during the afternoons with west winds 5-15 mph, gusting to 25 mph Sunday afternoon. A cold low-pressure system will dig south from the Gulf of Alaska on Sunday and set up shop off the California coast early next week. This storm will send a series of systems through the area Monday through Wednesday bringing rain and snow, possibly heavy at times. Clouds and winds will increase late Sunday with the first storm arriving on Monday. This system will tap into an AR, which means the snow levels may climb a bit, possibly above 7,000 feet, dropping back down around 6,000 feet by Monday afternoon and night. Colder air arrives on Tuesday with the next system, bringing the snow level down to 5,000 feet, possibly dipping as low as 4,000 on Wednesday. Gusty west winds 15-30 mph will also accompany this series of storms, with gusts to 45 mph possible, making for extremely treacherous travel. Snow showers will taper off later Wednesday or Thursday as low pressure departs the region. Total rainfall amounts across our coastal and valley areas of 1-2 inches can be expected, with 2-4 inches on the lower coastal slopes. Snowfall accumulations of 1-2 feet are expected through next week above 5,000 feet, with localized amounts near 3 feet possible above 6,000 feet. A lot of this will hinge on how soon the snow level drops on Monday. Regardless, be prepared for heavy snowfall and possible blizzard-like conditions throughout much of next week. If you have travel plans in the mountains next week, or headed home on Monday after the long holiday weekend, be ready and always carry chains!