California – A prolonged winter storm is expected to bring extreme snowfall and hazardous travel conditions to the Sierra Nevada beginning early Saturday and lasting through Monday morning.
According to the National Weather Service office in Hanford, a Winter Storm Warning is in effect from 1 a.m. Saturday until 10 a.m. PST Monday for a wide stretch of the central and southern Sierra. Affected areas include Yosemite National Park outside of the valley, Kings Canyon National Park, Sequoia National Park, the Grant Grove area, the Upper San Joaquin River region, Kaiser to Rodgers Ridge, and the south end of the Upper Sierra.
Forecasters say total snow accumulations could reach up to 55 inches, with wind gusts as high as 40 mph, creating dangerous conditions across mountain passes, high elevations, and backcountry areas. Blowing snow and reduced visibility are expected at times, particularly during periods of heavier snowfall.
Roads, bridges, and overpasses are likely to become slick and hazardous, with officials warning that travel could be very difficult to impossible. The storm may also impact the Monday morning commute, especially in higher-elevation communities and park access routes.
The weather service advises postponing travel if possible. Those who must drive are urged to carry emergency supplies, allow extra travel time, and check current road conditions by calling 511 before departure.
This storm is expected to be long-lasting, with conditions deteriorating overnight Saturday and persisting through much of the weekend before gradual improvement begins late Monday morning.
For park visitors, workers, and mountain-area residents, the warning signals potentially dangerous conditions and limited accessibility through the holiday weekend.
