Hanford, California – A powerful winter storm continues to impact the central Sierra Nevada, with Winter Storm Warnings remaining in effect through 10 p.m. PST Friday, according to the National Weather Service in Hanford.
The warning covers the Upper San Joaquin River basin, Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks, Grant Grove, the South End of the Upper Sierra, and Yosemite National Park outside of Yosemite Valley. Impacted locations include Shaver Lake, Huntington Lake, Grant Grove, Giant Forest, Cedar Grove, Lodgepole, Tuolumne Meadows, and Wawona.
Forecasters warn of extreme snowfall totals, with accumulations ranging from 4 to 7 feet across much of the central Sierra, and 5 to 8 feet possible above 6,000 feet in Yosemite National Park. Snow levels are expected to remain between 7,000 and 8,000 feet through Wednesday, lowering to near 6,000 feet by Christmas Day.
Strong winds accompanying the storm may gust as high as 60 mph, creating widespread blowing snow and whiteout conditions. Visibility could drop below one-quarter mile at times, making travel treacherous and potentially life-threatening. According to the National Weather Service, travel may become very difficult to impossible, especially during the Wednesday morning and evening commute periods.
Heavy snow loads on roofs pose a risk of structural damage, while the combination of snow weight and strong winds may down trees and power lines, leading to sporadic power outages across affected mountain communities.
Officials strongly advise against non-essential travel during the warning period. Motorists who must travel are urged to carry emergency supplies, including food, water, and a flashlight, and to monitor road conditions by calling 511.
This storm is expected to be one of the most significant snowfall events of the season for the central Sierra, with hazardous conditions likely to persist through Friday night.
