YOSEMITE, Calif. – A potent early-season winter storm is taking aim at California’s Sierra Nevada, with heavy mountain snow and hazardous travel expected from Monday through Wednesday. Snow totals could top two feet in higher elevations near Sequoia and Kings Canyon national parks, creating dangerous driving conditions across mountain passes and recreational routes.
According to the National Weather Service offices in Hanford and Sacramento, snow levels will hover between 6,500 and 7,000 feet. Areas including Yosemite National Park, Grant Grove, Shaver Lake, and Blue Canyon may see significant accumulation, especially south of Highway 50. Winds gusting up to 35 mph could further reduce visibility and cause blowing snow.
Forecasters warn that the storm could severely impact the Monday evening and Tuesday morning commutes, with travel “very difficult to impossible” across high Sierra roads. Caltrans advises delaying travel if possible and checking quickmap.dot.ca.gov or dialing 511 for real-time updates.
Mountain residents and visitors should prepare now—winterize vehicles, pack emergency kits, and avoid sudden braking on slick bridges and grades. Campgrounds, backcountry travelers, and utility crews should also brace for potential access issues and early-season power interruptions.
This system marks one of the earliest widespread Sierra snow events in recent years and could signal a stormier pattern heading into mid-October.
