Weather
Yosemite, CA First Snow This Week: Up to 6 Inches Expected Oct 21-22
Yosemite, CA – The first snowfall of the season is expected to reach higher elevations of California's Sierra Nevada this week, bringing accumulating snow, slippery mountain roads and potentially diff
By Audrey Sloan · 2026-10-20T03:03:15.584Z
Yosemite, CA – The first snowfall of the season is expected to reach higher elevations of California's Sierra Nevada this week, bringing accumulating snow, slippery mountain roads and potentially difficult travel conditions from Wednesday morning through Thursday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Hanford, a surge of moisture moving through Central California could produce 3 to 6 inches of snow above 8,000 feet, with heavier accumulations possible at elevations above the timberline.
The developing weather system is expected to affect mountainous areas surrounding Yosemite National Park and portions of the southern Sierra Nevada.
When Will the First Snow Arrive? Forecasters expect the most significant impacts between Wednesday morning, October 21, and Thursday evening, October 22.
Snowfall could create hazardous conditions along higher elevation mountain roads, particularly where temperatures allow accumulation on pavement.
The National Weather Service also identified a 15% to 20% chance of lightning Wednesday, decreasing to 10% to 15% Thursday.
While the greatest snowfall totals are expected at higher elevations, travelers approaching mountain passes and recreational areas should prepare for rapidly changing conditions.
Mountain Travel Could Become Difficult Officials warn that moderate to heavy snowfall could reduce visibility and create slick driving conditions.
Tire chains may become necessary on some mountain routes, depending on snowfall intensity and road conditions.
Drivers planning trips into the Sierra Nevada are encouraged to check current highway restrictions, monitor updated forecasts and allow additional travel time.
The approaching system marks an early season transition toward winter conditions in California's higher mountains, where weather can change quickly even when lower elevation communities remain relatively mild.
Residents and visitors should follow updates from the National Weather Service Hanford office at weather.gov/hanford .