Unsettled weekend for the West Coast as storms move in off the Pacific

An active pattern is setting up for the West Coast just in time for the weekend. Systems moving in off the Pacific will bring rain and mountain snow.

The WeatherRadar shows a large system pushing east into California Friday, bringing scattered showers and thunderstorms as well as mountain snow. Cities like San Francisco and Sacramento, Calif., will see rain on the increase throughout the day with high temperatures holding in the 60s.

Rain also spreads south into Southern California as this system moves closer, with the moisture reaching cities like Santa Barbara and Los Angeles by the afternoon and evening. Southern California cities, including Los Angeles and San Diego, will see highs in the 60s and 70s.

More unsettled weather moves in Saturday as Friday's system phases with a trough, which expands the unsettled weather into the Pacific Northwest. Scattered showers and cool temperatures in the 50s are in play for cities like Seattle, Portland, Ore., and Redding, Calif., throughout the day Saturday. At the same time, heavy snow is expected in the Cascades Saturday and Sunday.

Rain totals through the weekend will vary, but 1-2 inches is expected across the lower elevations. Up to a foot of snow will be possible for the Cascades this weekend. By Sunday morning, the high-elevation snowfall and lower-elevation rain will spread east into the Intermountain West and into parts of the Rockies.

With such unsettled weather in the forecast, it's important to check in with the WeatherRadar frequently. Also, remember, that mountain passes can be extremely hazardous this time of year. Check with local authorities before venturing out. In some areas, snow chains may be needed.