Monterey, California – Travel and backcountry plans in the Central Coast mountains could turn dangerous by late afternoon as heavy snow and wind gusts up to 60 mph sweep across elevations above 3,000 feet through Wednesday.
According to the National Weather Service in San Francisco, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect from 4 p.m. today until 4 p.m. Wednesday for the Santa Lucia Mountains and the mountains of San Benito County, including Los Padres National Forest and areas near Pinnacles National Park. Snow totals of 5 to 10 inches are expected above 3,000 feet, with 15 to 25 inches on the highest peaks. Winds above 2,000 feet may gust between 50 and 60 mph, sharply reducing visibility in heavier snow showers.
A separate advisory begins at 6 a.m. Tuesday for the Eastern Santa Clara Hills, where 4 to 8 inches of snow could accumulate above 3,000 feet, including along Highway 130 near Cordoza Ridge.
Slick, snow-covered roads and trails are likely. Campers and hikers should postpone trips, and drivers should carry chains if traveling into higher terrain. Downed trees and isolated power outages are possible as wind and heavy snow combine through Wednesday afternoon.
