Wrightwood, CA – A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect through 10 p.m. Tuesday for the Eastern San Gabriel Mountains and the Northern Ventura County Mountains, with 5 to 10 inches of snow expected to create dangerous travel conditions across high-elevation routes, according to an updated forecast from the National Weather Service Los Angeles/Oxnard.
The advisory covers communities including Wrightwood, Mount Baldy, Mount Wilson, Lockwood Valley, and Mount Pinos, where snowfall is expected to intensify during the day. Forecasters note that areas above 7,000 feet could see the highest totals, while elevations between 5,000 and 7,000 feet may receive 2 to 5 inches. Gusty southwest winds reaching 40 mph could further reduce visibility, especially along stretches of the Angeles Crest Highway, where blowing snow is a concern.
Hazardous Travel Expected Through Tuesday
The National Weather Service, in its advisory shared through its Los Angeles office, warns that accumulating snow along with strong winds will make travel difficult throughout the day. Mountain passes and exposed high-elevation roadways may experience rapid deterioration of road conditions, affecting both the morning and evening commute periods.
“Travel could be very difficult, especially at higher elevations,” the NWS cautioned in its latest discussion.
Drivers are urged to use caution, reduce speed, and anticipate sudden changes in visibility as snow bands move through the region.
Snowfall Ranges and Key Impact Zones
Forecasters emphasise that snowfall will be elevation-dependent, with the heaviest impacts in the highest terrain. Even modest accumulations in lower mountain elevations can still make roads slippery and hazardous.
Key expectations include:
- 5–10 inches of snow above 7,000 feet
- 2–5 inches between 5,000 and 7,000 feet
- Wind gusts up to 40 mph, creating blowing and drifting snow
These factors make routes such as Highway 2 and areas near Wrightwood particularly vulnerable to delays and temporary closures.
What Drivers Should Keep in Mind
Travelers heading through mountain corridors should be prepared for chain requirements and delays as conditions evolve. The NWS highlights that snowfall rates may fluctuate throughout the day, meaning road conditions can shift quickly even within short distances.
Motorists are encouraged to stay updated through California 511 and be prepared with winter driving essentials. Snow-covered and icy surfaces may persist into Wednesday morning, particularly in shaded or untreated areas.
Cold Temperatures and Lingering Impacts
While snow showers are expected to taper late Tuesday night, cold temperatures will continue to create slick conditions into early Wednesday. Forecasters advise that untreated roadways and higher shaded locations may remain icy, prolonging travel issues beyond the advisory timeframe.
The NWS Los Angeles office continues to monitor developments and encourages residents and travelers to remain alert as this weather system moves across Southern California’s mountains.
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