The Coloma-Lotus Valley is at a surprisingly low elevation, about 750 feet above sea level. Even that slight elevation, however, is enough to protect the valley from the dreary tule fog that plagues the Central Valley.
Winters can be delightful, characterized by winter rains, frosty mornings, and localized river mists that dissipate as the sun rises. Snow is rare, although occasionally a dusting of snow adds white to the surrounding hills.
Average Rainfall
10-year average, 1990-2000
37.86 inches
Lowest annual precipitation
July 1993 – June 1994
19.09 inches
Highest annual precipitation
July 1994 – June 1995
56.60 inches
The highest 2-month period of rain
Dec 1996 – Jan 1997
31.17 inches (river flooded Jan. 1997)
Temperature
Mean High: 76.2 F
Mean Low: 41.5 F
Record High: 113 F (July 30, 1996)
Record Low: 6 F (Dec 22, 1990)
The above data courtesy of Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park, compiled by Alan Ehrgott of the American River Conservancy
Spring and fall temperatures feature high daytime temperatures that typically range from the 60s to the 80s degrees F. Both spring flowers and fall foliage are spectacular. Nighttime frosts can linger into mid-March (occasionally, even into May). Rain falls in spring, but usually not as extensively as in winter.
Summers are hot, although humidity is low so the heat is quite tolerable. Locals and visitors alike head for the river to cool off. Daytime temperatures typically are in the 90s (Fahrenheit) and will often spike over 100 degrees for several weeks during the summer. Except for an occasional thunderstorm, little rain falls in the valley between June and October. Green hills turn gold by June.
These resources provide current conditions, local forecasts, and climate information for Coloma, El Dorado County, and other Gold Country destinations.
Weather Underground: Coloma Forecast – up-to-the-minute weather conditions and 5-day forecast.
Intellicast Weather– 10-day forecast, radar, and satellite imagery.
National Weather Service – also available in tabular form.
Current driving conditions throughout the Gold Country region.
Caltrans District Map – Multiple roads: click to choose the highway and see the latest conditions.
Caltrans Toll-free Telephone – 1-800-427-7623
Caltrans: Upcoming Road Work – Times and locations of road improvements and road closures. Plan ahead!