HANFORD, CA – The National Weather Service in Hanford has issued a Winter Storm Watch for the central Sierra Nevada, including Yosemite National Park (outside the valley), Sequoia National Park, Kings Canyon, Shaver Lake, and surrounding high-country areas, in effect from late Wednesday night through late Thursday night.
According to forecasters, heavy snow is possible above 5,000 feet, with 6 to 12 inches expected, and up to 2 feet at higher elevations. Winds could reach 40 mph, creating hazardous travel conditions, especially on mountain roads, bridges, and overpasses.
The NWS cautions that travel could be very difficult to impossible, particularly during the Thursday morning and evening commutes. Drivers are urged to delay travel plans if possible and to use extreme caution if travel cannot be avoided.
This storm system could bring the first significant snow event of the season to the southern and central Sierra, affecting popular recreation areas like Wawona, Shaver Lake, and Grant Grove. Motorists and park visitors should prepare for rapidly changing weather and monitor updates throughout the week.
