Small stream flooding expected Sunday

There is a strong chance of urban and small stream flooding starting Sunday morning as heavy precipitation is expected to fall as rain, according to the National Weather Service.

No major river flooding is anticipated through Friday, though the rivers will show moderate rises.

The main threat of flooding is below the snow level, which will run between 6,500 and 7,000 feet.

In the central Sierra, the flood threat will be low Monday through Friday because most of the precipitation will fall as snow.

The greatest flood threat is south of Mono County during the week.

There will be a break in the weather on Thursday and Friday with more precipitation expected on Christmas weekend. There isn't enough information on that storm to determine whether there will be a threat of flooding.

A flood advisory has been issued for the west slope of the Sierra where stream gauges are showing that creeks and rivers are swelling.

A winter storm warning for heavy snow and gusty winds continues to be in effect until 4 p.m. Monday. The heaviest snow is expected late tonight through Sunday when snowfall rates could reach 2-4 inches per hour. Snowfall totals of 5-10 feet are likely in the Sierra above 7,000 feet. With near zero visibility and strong winds at times, the National Weather Service is suggesting motorists consider postponing travel plans to avoid dangerous conditions.

Heavenly Valley reported 20 inches of snow over 24 hours. A Gardnerville weather spotter reported 10.3 inches of snow fall two miles northwest of town.