Hanford, CA – A Winter Storm Warning has been issued for the central Sierra Nevada, including Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon National Parks, beginning 1 a.m. Thursday through 4 a.m. Friday, according to the National Weather Service in Hanford.
Forecasters expect 6 to 12 inches of snow above 6,000 feet, with the highest elevations receiving up to 2 feet. Winds could gust as high as 40 mph, further reducing visibility and making travel treacherous.
The warning covers mountain areas such as Tuolumne Meadows, Lodgepole, Huntington Lake, Shaver Lake, Grant Grove, and Giant Forest. Officials caution that both the Thursday morning and evening commutes could be severely impacted by slick, snow-covered roads and blowing snow.
Travel in the Sierra will be very difficult to impossible during peak snowfall, and drivers are urged to avoid mountain passes if possible. The National Weather Service advises carrying flashlights, food, water, and tire chains, and checking 511 for the latest road conditions before traveling.
Hazardous conditions will gradually improve by early Friday as snow showers taper off.
