Las Vegas, Nevada – Drivers along U.S. 395 through Owens Valley could face snow-covered pavement as early as 2 p.m. Tuesday, with conditions worsening rapidly after sunset.
According to the National Weather Service in Las Vegas, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect from 2 p.m. Tuesday until 4 a.m. Wednesday for Bishop, Lone Pine, Independence and Olancha. Snow totals of 2 to 5 inches are expected, mainly north of Lone Pine, with gusts reaching 40 mph.
Snow levels will hover near the valley floor Tuesday afternoon before colder air deepens the snowfall rate after dark. Roads across Bishop and Independence may turn slick within the first hour of steady precipitation. Gusty winds could reduce visibility and create drifting on exposed stretches of U.S. 395.
Law enforcement warns that spin-outs and slide-offs become more likely once pavement temperatures drop below freezing overnight. Travelers should reduce speed, allow extra braking distance and check Caltrans road conditions at 1-800-427-7623 before departure.
The most hazardous window runs from late Tuesday evening through the pre-dawn hours Wednesday, when snowfall intensity peaks and temperatures fall further. Advisories remain in place through 4 a.m., and additional updates may follow if bands linger into daybreak.
