Mammoth Lakes, CA – A major early-season winter storm is set to impact Mono County beginning Monday morning, with heavy snow and strong winds expected to last through Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service in Reno.
Forecasters have issued a Winter Storm Warning from 11 a.m. Monday through 11 a.m. Wednesday for elevations above 7,000 feet. Snow totals are projected to reach 8 to 16 inches in most areas, with 1 to 3 feet possible along the Sierra crest. Communities along Highway 395, including Bridgeport and Lee Vining, could see 1 to 4 inches of accumulation.
The heaviest snowfall is anticipated Monday night through Tuesday morning, when snowfall rates could reach 1 to 2 inches per hour. Ridge-top winds may gust up to 70 mph, creating whiteout conditions and potentially downing tree branches.
Travel will likely be hazardous across mountain passes such as Sonora and Tioga Passes, and drivers are urged to delay travel if possible. The storm may also affect the Monday evening and Tuesday morning commutes across the Eastern Sierra.
Officials advise motorists to carry emergency supplies — including food, water, and a flashlight — and to check road conditions by calling 511 before heading out.
