Fresno, CA – A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect for parts of the central and southern Sierra Nevada through 10 a.m. Friday, with accumulating snow and reduced visibility expected to impact mountain travel. The system is already producing slick conditions across high-elevation routes.
According to the National Weather Service Hanford office, 5 to 8 inches of snow are expected across the central and southern Sierra, including Yosemite National Park (outside the valley), Sequoia National Park, Kings Canyon, and surrounding high-elevation communities such as Shaver Lake, Huntington Lake, Lake Thomas Edison, Wawona, Florence Lake, Johnsondale, and Lodgepole. Winds may gust up to 35 mph at higher elevations.
Farther south, in the Frazier Mountain communities including Pine Mountain Club and areas near Mount Pinos, snowfall totals of 2 to 5 inches are expected, accompanied by winds up to 25 mph.
The advisory remains active through Friday morning, with hazardous travel conditions likely tonight and into the Friday morning commute. NWS forecasters note that bridges, overpasses, and shaded mountain roadways may become particularly slick as temperatures drop.
Officials urge drivers to slow down, allow extra braking distance, and check state road conditions by dialing 511 before traveling. Pedestrians are also advised to use caution on icy stairs, sidewalks, and driveways, where the risk of slipping is elevated.
Motorists traveling through Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon National Parks should be prepared for rapidly changing conditions and possible delays.
