Several days of rain forecast in Northern California amid atmospheric river storm

(FOX40.COM) — An atmospheric river is poised to give the Sacramento Valley several straight days of rain beginning midweek.

"Wednesday is going to be a solid soaking," said FOX40's Chief Meteorologist Adam Epstein.

Atmospheric rivers are rated on an intensity scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the most intense. Experts rated the upcoming storm as a 4. Because of this, rain is forecast to hit the area on Wednesday with widespread showers. On Thursday, the rain is forecast to shift north and return Friday. Saturday is expected to bring in a downpour with some dry breaks throughout the day.

According to Epstein, rain totals will be the highest north of Sacramento, but there's potential for 1-5 inches of rain near Sacramento by the end of the week. Northwest parts of the state such as Chico and Ukiah are under a flood watch until Saturday morning because of possible sharp rises in rivers creeks and streams.

In addition, cold temperatures will be in effect from 10 p.m. Monday to 10 a.m. Tuesday. Temperature lows are forecast to fall between 30 and 36 degrees with widespread frost below 2,000 feet. Officials warn that the cold temperatures are hazardous to pets, plants, and people without adequate heating.