Fresno, CA – Central California is preparing for an active winter stretch from December 18–24, with NOAA’s long-range outlook showing above-normal precipitation statewide and temperatures ranging from near-normal in the valleys to colder-than-normal at higher elevations. This setup supports heavy Sierra snow, foothill ice potential, and widespread rain in the Central Valley as Christmas Eve approaches.
According to NOAA, the Central Sierra Nevada—including Yosemite, Mammoth Lakes, Shaver Lake, and the Highway 120, 108, and 168 corridors—will see multiple rounds of heavy snowfall from December 19–23. Snowfall rates may significantly reduce visibility and create dangerous travel through Tioga Pass (when open), Sonora Pass, Donner Summit (to the north), and the Mammoth region.
In the foothill communities—Oakhurst, Sonora, Mariposa, and Coarsegold—temperatures are expected to hover near freezing overnight. This creates the potential for freezing rain or mixed precipitation, especially December 19–21. Steep terrain and shaded areas may glaze quickly, creating hazardous early-morning travel.
The Central Valley, including Fresno, Merced, Modesto, Stockton, Madera, and surrounding agricultural regions, will see widespread rain—locally heavy at times. Ponding water, minor field flooding, and reduced visibility are concerns, especially along Highway 99 and I-5. A late-week cooldown may allow precipitation to end as wet snow in northern valley fringes or elevated outskirts.
Along the Central Coast, including Monterey, Salinas, Paso Robles, and San Luis Obispo, heavy rain and gusty winds are expected. Coastal hills may briefly mix with snow late in the period as colder air arrives.
Major travel routes—including I-5, Highway 99, U.S. 101, Highway 41, 120, 140, and 168—may experience slick roads, heavy rain, snow-covered passes, and delays, particularly from December 21 through Christmas Eve.
