SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The Latest on storms in California (all times local):

7:20 p.m.

Flood advisories are in place for parts of Northern California as a winter storm that dumped snow in the Sierra Nevada brings thunderstorms to lower elevations.

The National Weather Service on Wednesday urged motorists in Sutter, Yuba and Butte counties to drive with caution after more than an inch (2.5 centimetres) of rain flooded roadways.

Forecasters say periods of heavy snow and strong winds will continue Thursday into Saturday.

Some mountain areas could get up to 5 feet (1.5 metres) of snow.

In Southern California there’s a possibility of heavy rains early next week.

___

7:20 a.m.

Late-winter storms are piling up snow in the Sierra Nevada and scattering showers elsewhere around the state.

The National Weather Service says there will be periods of heavy snow and strong winds Wednesday, and again Thursday afternoon into Saturday.

Elevations above 3,000 feet (914 metres) can expect 1 to 3 feet (0.3 metre to 0.9 metre) of snow, while pass elevations could get up to 5 feet (1.5 metres) through late Friday.

The weather service warns that drivers may experience whiteout conditions, chain controls and road closures.

A backcountry avalanche watch has been issued for the central Sierra between Yuba and Ebbetts passes, including the greater Lake Tahoe area.

Southern California forecasters say there’s potential for a system to bring heavy rains early next week.

Spring begins on Tuesday.