Sacramento, California – Snow has been the defining weather story across California’s mountains this season, with massive accumulations building across the Sierra Nevada from late September through early February. While valleys and coastal cities have seen a mix of rain and mild winter weather, high elevations have experienced near-continuous snow and long-lasting impacts.
According to the National Weather Service and California snow analysis data, parts of the Sierra Nevada have recorded close to 20 feet of snow since Sept. 30. The deepest totals are focused at higher elevations, where repeated Pacific storms and colder air have consistently favored snow over rain.
Communities such as Truckee, South Lake Tahoe, and Donner Summit are near the top of the seasonal range, with snowpack remaining deep for much of the winter. Travel along Interstate 80 and U.S. 50 has been repeatedly disrupted by chain controls, temporary closures, and low visibility during heavy snow bursts.
Farther south, Mammoth Lakes and the central Sierra have also logged exceptional snowfall, creating hazardous driving conditions along Highway 395 while supporting a strong winter recreation season. Snow totals decrease rapidly outside the mountains, with much lower accumulation across the Central Valley and Southern California.
Caltrans continues to urge travelers to prepare for winter mountain driving, emphasizing that conditions can deteriorate quickly during storms. With winter still ongoing, additional Pacific systems could continue to add to already impressive Sierra snow totals, and further advisories may be issued as the season progresses.
