Weather
California Winter Storm Warning: 16 Inches of Snow, 50 MPH Winds Nov 13-17
Fresno, CA – A powerful winter storm is expected to bring heavy snowfall and dangerous&nb…
By Natalie Brooks · 2026-11-12T14:48:20.251Z
Fresno, CA – A powerful winter storm is expected to bring heavy snowfall and dangerous winds to California’s Sierra Nevada beginning Friday afternoon, potentially making mountain travel nearly impossible through early Tuesday.
Residents, travelers and anyone planning weekend trips to Yosemite, Sequoia or Kings Canyon national parks should prepare for hazardous conditions.
According to the National Weather Service in Hanford, a Winter Storm Warning takes effect at 4 p.m. Friday, November 13, and continues until 4 a.m. Tuesday, November 17.
Forecasters expect snow accumulations reaching 16 inches , accompanied by wind gusts as high as 50 mph across mountain elevations above 6,000 feet.
Mountain Communities Face Dangerous Conditions
The warning covers portions of the central and southern Sierra Nevada, including Yosemite National Park outside Yosemite Valley, Sequoia National Park, Kings Canyon National Park and the San Joaquin River Canyon.
Communities and destinations potentially affected include Shaver Lake, Huntington Lake, Hume Lake, Grant Grove, Wawona, Lodgepole, Giant Forest and Tuolumne Meadows.
Heavy snowfall could create dangerous driving conditions throughout the weekend, particularly on mountain highways and roads leading into recreational areas.
The National Weather Service warns that travel could become very difficult or impossible in some locations.
Friday Evening and Monday Morning Travel at Risk
The storm’s timing could create significant problems for travelers heading into the mountains Friday evening and returning Monday morning.
Snow covered roads, slick bridges and icy overpasses may increase accident risks, while strong winds could bring down tree branches.
Officials urge motorists to consider postponing unnecessary mountain travel until conditions improve.
Anyone who must drive should carry emergency supplies, including extra food, drinking water and a flashlight.
Travelers can check updated California road conditions by calling 511 before departing.
The warning remains in effect through early Tuesday, with hazardous mountain conditions possible throughout the weekend and into Monday.
Residents and visitors should continue monitoring National Weather Service updates as the storm approaches.