Las Vegas, NV – Drivers along U.S. Highway 395 in the Owens Valley should prepare for snow-covered pavement by Tuesday afternoon as colder air drops snow levels to the valley floor.
According to the National Weather Service in Las Vegas, a Winter Storm Watch is in effect from Tuesday morning through early Wednesday morning for the Owens Valley, including Bishop, Independence, Lone Pine and Olancha. Snow totals of 3 to 6 inches are possible, mainly north of Lone Pine, with wind gusts up to 40 mph.
Snow is expected to develop Tuesday afternoon as snow levels hover near the valley floor. After sunset, colder air will increase snowfall rates and allow accumulation on roads, making travel increasingly hazardous. Slick stretches, slide-offs and spin-outs are possible, especially on exposed sections of U.S. 395 and local roadways.
The heaviest impacts are expected Tuesday evening into late night, when visibility may drop during heavier bursts. Motorists are urged to delay travel if possible, increase following distance and avoid sudden braking or sharp turns.
Officials advise checking California road conditions by calling 511 before departure. The watch may be upgraded to a warning if confidence in heavier snowfall increases before Tuesday.
