The National Weather Service is predicting colder than normal temperatures for the Memorial Day weekend, with a chance of snow at higher elevations.

A new system was expected to move in Friday, bringing a chance of showers to the foothills with a slight chance of thunderstorms through today. The system also brings a possibility of snow at 6,500 feet, meaning upper Sierra recreationists should be prepared.

Temperatures are expected to be in the 60s today and Sunday. Winds from 5 to 10 mph both days could add to the brisk weather. Cloudy conditions are expected to continue through today, with the sun coming out on Sunday and Monday.

Temperatures are expected to climb back up into the 70s for Memorial Day and remain there for the rest of next week, with mostly sunny skies.

Water temperatures throughout the weekend will be extremely cold and dangerous in Sierra streams due to this year's heavy snowpack. The runoff will also bring swift currents, and rescue experts are asking people to refrain from swimming.

- Dave Moller