BISHOP, Calif. – A powerful early-season winter storm is taking aim at the eastern Sierra, with forecasters warning of feet of snow and dangerous travel conditions by late Monday. The National Weather Service in Las Vegas has issued a Winter Storm Watch from Monday afternoon through late Tuesday night for the Eastern Sierra Slopes, including Aspendell and Whitney Portal.
According to the NWS Las Vegas office, heavy snow is possible above 7,000 feet, with total accumulations of 1 to 2 feet expected between 7,000 and 9,000 feet and up to 3 feet above 9,000 feet. Gusty winds up to 40 mph will create blowing and drifting snow, drastically reducing visibility at times.
The heaviest snowfall is expected Monday night through Tuesday, when travel across mountain passes west of Bishop could become “very difficult to impossible.” Caltrans warns drivers to avoid Highway 168 and other high routes unless absolutely necessary. If travel cannot be postponed, motorists should carry tire chains, emergency food, and cold-weather gear.
Forecasters say this storm will mark a dramatic shift from recent mild fall weather, with temperatures dropping sharply across the Sierra and Owens Valley. Hikers and campers should prepare for rapidly deteriorating conditions and be ready to turn back before the storm arrives.
Conditions are expected to improve late Tuesday night into Wednesday as the system moves east, but lingering snow and ice may continue to affect mountain roads.
