Bishop, California – A Winter Storm Watch has been issued for the Owens Valley, where up to 6 inches of snow could impact travel Tuesday into early Wednesday.
According to the National Weather Service in Las Vegas, snow accumulations of 3 to 6 inches appear possible down to the Owens Valley floor, especially north of Lone Pine. The watch is in effect from 10 a.m. Tuesday through 4 a.m. Wednesday.
Forecasters say colder air moving into the region will allow snow levels to drop to valley elevations. Snow totals of 3 inches are possible between 3,000 and 4,000 feet, with up to 6 inches above 4,000 feet.
Wind gusts between 15 and 30 mph are also expected, which could reduce visibility and contribute to drifting snow in open areas.
Roadways including U.S. Highway 395, State Route 168 and State Route 6 may become slick and snow-covered at times, particularly overnight Tuesday into early Wednesday morning. Travel conditions could deteriorate quickly as heavier bands of snow develop.
The National Weather Service emphasized that a Winter Storm Watch means conditions are favorable for significant winter weather, but details may change as the system approaches.
Drivers traveling through Bishop, Independence, Big Pine and Lone Pine should prepare for winter driving conditions and monitor forecast updates.
Students, commuters and commercial drivers along the U.S. 395 corridor may experience slower travel during the Tuesday evening and early Wednesday commute periods.
Additional updates are expected as the storm system moves closer to the Eastern Sierra.
