Idyllwild-Pine Cove, California – Heavy snow and powerful winds could blanket the Riverside County Mountains starting Monday morning, with dangerous travel possible through Thursday morning.
A Winter Storm Watch is in effect from Monday morning through Thursday morning for the San Jacinto range, including Idyllwild and Pine Cove.
Forecasters are tracking two rounds of snow. The first arrives Monday, bringing 3 to 6 inches between 6,000 and 7,000 feet and 6 to 12 inches above 7,000 feet. Snow levels will start near 6,500 feet and fall toward 5,000 feet during the day, increasing the risk of accumulating snow on mountain roads.
According to the National Weather Service in San Diego, wind gusts could reach 60 to 70 mph, especially along desert-facing slopes. Blowing snow may reduce visibility below a quarter mile at times, creating whiteout conditions on exposed ridges and highways.
Snow may briefly ease Tuesday before a second round of heavy snow and gusty winds arrives Wednesday into early Thursday. Snow levels could fall even lower during the second surge, expanding impacts to more communities.
Travel could become very difficult to impossible, especially along Highways 74 and 243. The Monday evening and Tuesday morning commutes may be significantly affected. Strong winds could also bring down tree limbs and cause isolated power outages.
Residents and visitors should monitor updates closely, delay non-essential travel and ensure vehicles are equipped with chains and emergency supplies.
