California – Heavy snowfall and strong winds are expected to create dangerous and potentially impossible travel conditions in parts of the central Sierra Nevada through Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service.
The National Weather Service office in Hanford said a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 4 p.m. PST Wednesday for Yosemite National Park outside of the valley, the Upper San Joaquin River region, and the Kaiser to Rodgers Ridge area.
Forecasters said snow accumulations of 12 to 18 inches are expected above 7,000 feet, with up to 24 inches possible at the highest elevations. In addition to heavy snowfall, wind gusts of 40 to 50 mph may produce blowing snow and whiteout conditions in exposed areas.
The heaviest snowfall is expected Tuesday evening through early Wednesday morning, increasing the risk of hazardous travel during both the morning and evening commute periods. Officials warned that travel could become very difficult to impossible, particularly on mountain roads, passes, and backcountry routes.
Areas included in the warning encompass Tuolumne Meadows, Wawona, Huntington Lake, Shaver Lake, Florence Lake, Lake Wishon, Devils Postpile, and Lake Thomas Edison, along with surrounding higher-elevation terrain.
The National Weather Service urged anyone who must travel to carry emergency supplies, including food, water, and a flashlight, and to check the latest road conditions before departing. California road conditions can be accessed by calling 5-1-1.
Residents and visitors are advised to closely monitor forecast updates as conditions may change rapidly during the storm.
Additional statements or extensions of the warning may be issued if snowfall rates increase or impacts worsen.
