Hanford, CA – Mountain travel across central California could grind to a halt tonight as up to 7 feet of snow piles into the Sierra Nevada and wind gusts reach 70 mph through Wednesday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Hanford, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 10 p.m. Wednesday for elevations from Mariposa and Madera counties south through Fresno and Tulare counties, including Yosemite National Park, Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Park. Snow totals will reach 3 to 5 feet above 6,000 feet, with 5 to 7 feet over the highest peaks. Communities such as Shaver Lake, Bass Lake, Grant Grove and Giant Forest will see prolonged heavy snowfall and gusts up to 60 mph. Snow levels will drop from around 6,000 feet to near 4,000 feet by Tuesday morning, with light accumulations possible down to 3,000 feet late Tuesday into Wednesday.
In Kern County’s Tehachapi and Frazier Park areas, totals could reach 22 inches with wind gusts up to 70 mph, increasing the risk of tree damage and road closures along Highway 58.
Travel may become very difficult to impossible, especially during the Monday morning and evening commutes. Officials urge motorists to carry emergency supplies and check California road conditions by calling 511 before departure. Warnings remain in place through Wednesday night, and additional closures are possible as snowfall continues.
