Hanford, CA – Another round of wet weather is arriving in the Sierra Nevada from Thursday morning until Friday night, bringing additional snowfall to higher elevations. According to the National Weather Service Hanford office, most impacts will be minor, but a few pockets along the Sierra crest could experience moderate travel disruptions.
According to the National Weather Service, snowfall will continue to accumulate above the higher passes as moisture funnels across central California. While widespread hazardous conditions are not expected, drivers traveling through mountain routes may encounter slushy roads, reduced visibility, and slick conditions, especially during periods of heavier snow.
The Winter Storm Severity Index (WSSI) map included in the latest update highlights a narrow but concentrated corridor of minor to moderate winter weather impacts. These areas stretch from Yosemite National Park southward toward Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park, with moderate impacts most likely along the higher ridge lines.
Forecasters advise travelers heading into the Sierra Nevada over the next few days to use caution, especially during the overnight and early morning hours when road surfaces are coldest. Chain restrictions may be possible at times on key travel routes, including Highway 168, Highway 180, Highway 198, and higher-elevation roads near Shaver Lake, Huntington Lake, and Kaiser Pass.
The system is expected to taper Friday night, giving way to quieter, more stable weather for the weekend. Long-range outlooks suggest additional Pacific storm systems could develop late November into early December, though details remain uncertain.
Residents and holiday travelers planning mountain trips are encouraged to monitor updated NWS forecasts as conditions evolve.
