Fresno, CA – Up to 2 feet of additional snow is slamming the central Sierra through 10 p.m. Thursday, with travel across mountain highways turning treacherous as snow levels drop toward 2,000 feet by evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Hanford, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for Mariposa, Madera, Fresno and Tulare County mountain communities, including Yosemite National Park, Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Park. Another 1 to 2 feet of snow is expected in many elevations, with up to 3 feet possible over the highest peaks. Areas above 3,000 feet could see 3 to 6 inches, while as much as 3 inches may fall near 2,000 feet. Wind gusts could reach 50 mph.
The storm is impacting communities such as Oakhurst, Shaver Lake, Bass Lake, Grant Grove and Yosemite Valley. Snow-covered roads and reduced visibility may slow or halt travel along Highway 41 into Yosemite, Highway 168 near Shaver Lake and mountain routes through Sequoia and Kings Canyon. Gusty winds could knock down tree branches and create isolated power disruptions.
Drivers should delay non-essential trips and check California road conditions by calling 511 before heading out. Snow levels will fluctuate through the afternoon before lowering again tonight, keeping hazardous travel conditions in place until the warning expires at 10 p.m. Additional updates are possible if snowfall rates intensify.
