Fresno, CA – A Winter Weather Advisory has been extended through 10 p.m. Tuesday for the central Sierra Nevada, where heavy snow is expected to create hazardous travel conditions from Yosemite National Park to Sequoia National Park, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) Hanford.
Snow accumulations of 6 to 8 inches are forecast around the 6,000-foot elevation, with up to 12 inches possible in higher elevations. Impacted areas include Yosemite NP outside the valley, Kings Canyon NP, Sequoia NP, and popular mountain recreation zones such as Shaver Lake, Huntington Lake, Grant Grove, Cedar Grove, Devils Postpile, Lake Wishon, and Florence Lake.
According to NWS Hanford, snowfall will continue overnight and through Tuesday, with the most intense periods expected during the morning and evening commute windows. This timing increases the likelihood of travel disruptions along mountain highways and within the national parks. Roads above 6,000 feet may become snow-covered and slick, while higher passes could experience deeper accumulation and reduced visibility.
Motorists traveling along mountain routes should be prepared for very difficult travel, including chain controls, possible delays, and rapidly changing conditions. Wind enhancement over high ridges may also create areas of blowing snow, further limiting visibility.
Travelers heading to high-elevation destinations—including Grant Grove, Lodgepole, Giant Forest, Johnsondale, and Tuolumne Meadows—are urged to check road conditions via California 511 and confirm park access restrictions before departing. Essential workers and early commuters should allow extra travel time and carry emergency supplies.
Snow is expected to taper late Tuesday night, but cold temperatures could leave lingering icy patches into Wednesday morning.
