Weather
Eastern California Winter Storm Watch: Up to 1 Foot of Snow Saturday
Bishop, CA – A winter storm watch has been issued for California's Eastern Sierra slopes, where up to a foot of snow could fall in higher elevations beginning Friday afternoon, creating potentially ha
By Jenna Hartley · 2026-11-11T08:50:54.356Z
Bishop, CA – A winter storm watch has been issued for California's Eastern Sierra slopes, where up to a foot of snow could fall in higher elevations beginning Friday afternoon, creating potentially hazardous mountain travel conditions through Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service in Las Vegas, the watch covers elevations above 7,000 feet from Friday afternoon, Nov. 13, through Saturday afternoon, Nov. 14. The affected area includes Aspendell, Whitney Portal and surrounding mountain communities in Inyo County.
Forecasters anticipate 5 to 10 inches of snow across higher elevations, with localized totals reaching 12 inches near the Sierra Crest.
Mountain Roads Could Become Dangerous
Heavy snowfall could make roads, bridges and overpasses slick and hazardous, particularly along mountain routes leading into the Eastern Sierra.
Travelers heading toward Whitney Portal, Aspendell and other high elevation destinations should prepare for rapidly changing winter conditions.
The National Weather Service advises motorists to consider delaying travel during the storm period.
Those who must travel should carry tire chains, booster cables, flashlights, shovels, blankets, extra clothing, water and first aid supplies in case they become stranded.
Snowfall Depends on Elevation
The winter storm watch specifically applies to elevations above 7,000 feet, meaning lower elevation communities may experience substantially different conditions.
The greatest snowfall potential is concentrated near the Sierra Crest, where accumulations could approach one foot by Saturday afternoon.
A winter storm watch indicates that significant winter weather is possible, but the precise timing, snowfall amounts and impacts remain subject to change.
Residents and visitors planning mountain travel Friday or Saturday should monitor updated National Weather Service forecasts and check road conditions before departure.
Additional advisories or warnings could be issued as the storm approaches.