California winter storm watches
There are no winter storm watches in California right now. The last one was issued on November 14, 2026.
A significant winter storm with heavy snow, sleet or ice is possible in the next one to two days.
Updated from the National Weather Service · lists refresh hourly; the live map loads current alerts directly from the NWS
Active winter storm watches in California
None right now. Other active alerts in California: 19 (see the California alerts page).
Winter Storm Watches in California by year
California averaged 63.5 winter storm watches per year from 2016 to 2025, and has had 24 so far in 2026. The most recent was issued on November 14, 2026.
Counties with the most winter storm watches
What a winter storm watch means
A winter storm watch gives early notice that conditions could meet winter storm warning criteria, usually 12 to 48 hours before the storm. Confidence in the track or precipitation type is not yet high enough for a warning. Watches are later upgraded to warnings, changed to advisories, or cancelled.
More about winter storm watches and the national map →
What to do
- Stock up on food, water, medicines and fuel before the storm.
- Plan to delay travel and work remotely if possible.
- Get vehicles ready with a full tank and winter supplies.