Westgard Pass, California – Heavy snow and powerful winds will slam the White Mountains beginning early Monday, making travel on Highway 168 treacherous through Wednesday night.
A Winter Storm Warning is in effect from 4 a.m. Monday until 10 p.m. Wednesday for the White and Inyo Mountains, including Westgard Pass and the Bristlecone Pine area. Snow will intensify Monday morning and persist in waves through midweek.
The heaviest accumulations are expected above 8,000 feet, where more than 2 feet of snow is possible. Elevations above 7,000 feet could see 1 to 2 feet, with 8 to 16 inches down to 6,000 feet. According to the National Weather Service in Las Vegas, wind gusts may reach 50 mph over exposed ridges, creating blowing snow and visibility below a quarter mile at times.
Travel on Highway 168, especially through Westgard Pass, may become very difficult to impossible during periods of heavy snowfall and strong winds. Snowfall rates are expected to briefly ease late Monday night into Tuesday morning before ramping up again by midday Tuesday, prolonging hazardous conditions.
Strong winds combined with heavy, wet snow could damage trees and lead to isolated power outages in higher elevations. Outdoor exposure will also pose a risk for frostbite and hypothermia.
Officials urge residents and visitors to delay non-essential travel until conditions improve. If travel is unavoidable, carry emergency supplies, dress in multiple layers, and cover exposed skin. Motorists should monitor road conditions before departing and be prepared for sudden closures.
