Fresno, California – Mountain travel across the central Sierra Nevada could grind to a halt within hours as heavy snow begins late tonight, piling up rapidly above 7,000 feet and creating near-whiteout conditions through Wednesday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Hanford, a Winter Storm Warning takes effect at 10 p.m. tonight for Yosemite National Park outside the valley, the Upper San Joaquin River region, and the Kaiser to Rodgers Ridge area. Snow totals are expected to reach 12 to 18 inches at higher elevations, with up to 24 inches at the highest peaks. Wind gusts between 40 and 50 mph will cause blowing and drifting snow, sharply reducing visibility.
Communities including Shaver Lake, Huntington Lake, Wawona, Tuolumne Meadows, Devils Postpile, and Lake Thomas Edison are likely to see the most severe impacts. Mountain passes and secondary roads could become impassable, especially during the Tuesday morning and evening travel periods. Emergency officials warn that road closures are possible as crews struggle to keep up with snowfall rates.
Drivers who must travel are urged to carry food, water, and emergency supplies, and to check real-time road conditions through Caltrans by calling 511. The storm is expected to weaken by Wednesday afternoon, but additional advisories could follow as conditions evolve.
