Big Bear Lake, CA – A fresh round of mountain snowfall is expected to impact travel across the San Bernardino County Mountains through Tuesday night, as a Winter Weather Advisory remains active for elevations above 6,000 feet, according to an update from NWS San Diego. Forecasters project 2 to 5 inches of snow, with lighter accumulations as low as 5,500 feet, setting up another challenging commute period for residents, visitors, and anyone traveling mountain corridors.
The system is bringing colder air, steady snow, and periods of gusty winds that will continue shaping travel conditions from Monday evening through late Tuesday. Mountain communities including Big Bear Lake, Big Bear City, Running Springs, and Wrightwood are seeing the most consistent snowfall, with impacts expected to intensify overnight.
Snowfall Outlook and Expected Accumulations
Weather forecasters note that snow has been falling steadily across the higher elevations and will continue as colder air deepens across the region. According to the update from NWS San Diego, the heaviest snowfall is expected from late Monday night into early Tuesday morning.
Key elevation highlights include:
- Above 6,000 feet: 2–5 inches of snow expected
- Around 5,500 feet: Light accumulation possible
- Below 5,500 feet: Mostly wet roads and cold rain
This storm’s timing could influence both the Monday evening and Tuesday morning commute periods, especially along steep, winding mountain roads.
Major Highways Expected to Be Impacted
Officials warn that several well-traveled mountain routes could experience rapidly deteriorating conditions as snow continues to accumulate. Among the most at-risk corridors are:
- Highway 18
- Highway 38
- Highway 330
These routes frequently see quick transitions from wet pavement to icy or snow-covered surfaces due to elevation changes. Reduced visibility from heavier snow bursts or blowing snow is also likely.
Travel Safety Precautions for Drivers
Authorities emphasize that conditions may shift suddenly, particularly at higher elevations or along shaded sections of roadways. Motorists planning to travel in or through the mountains should prepare for delays and hazardous conditions.
Drivers are strongly encouraged to:
- Carry tire chains, as required by the California Highway Patrol during winter conditions
- Reduce speed and maintain extra distance from other vehicles
- Monitor road closures and chain-control updates
- Use caution during early morning hours when icy spots are most common
Wind gusts along exposed ridges could create areas of blowing snow, further decreasing visibility and complicating driving conditions overnight.
How Lower Elevations Will Be Affected
While mountain communities above 6,000 feet will see the most direct impact, lower elevations will still experience the outer effects of the storm. Areas below 5,500 feet may encounter wet pavement, brief slush, and colder-than-normal temperatures.
However, the advisory notes that the more significant travel hazards will remain in the upper elevations where snow and ice are more persistent.
Monitoring Conditions and Staying Updated
Residents and travelers can stay informed through the California 511 road system, which provides real-time updates on closures, chain-control requirements, and travel delays. Weather updates from NWS San Diego will continue as the system progresses into Tuesday evening.
Forecasters encourage anyone planning mountain travel to keep checking for changes in advisories or updated snowfall projections, as conditions may shift quickly with incoming colder air.
Closing Outlook
This early-season winter system will continue bringing snow, slick roads, and visibility challenges through 10 p.m. Tuesday. With another cold night ahead, mountain drivers should plan extra time, stay cautious, and remain prepared for winter travel conditions—especially on major routes approaching Big Bear and surrounding communities.
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