Fresno, CA – A renewed round of winter weather is set to impact the Sierra Nevada through Tuesday night, with significant snowfall creating dangerous travel conditions across popular mountain corridors, according to updated guidance from NWS Hanford.
Forecasters warn that 6 to 8 inches of snow will accumulate near 6,000 feet, while elevations above that level could see totals reach 12 inches. The weather system is affecting areas from Yosemite National Park down to Sequoia National Park, creating hazards for residents, travelers, and recreation visitors.
Heavy Sierra Snowfall Expected Through Tuesday Night
Snowfall will continue throughout the day and into Tuesday night, with periods of heavier intensity expected during both the morning and evening commute hours. According to an advisory integrated from NWS Hanford, the timing of the heaviest snow increases the chance of rapidly deteriorating road conditions on major mountain highways and inside national parks.
Popular destinations projected to see accumulating snow include:
- Yosemite NP outside the valley
- Kings Canyon NP
- Sequoia NP
- Shaver Lake, Huntington Lake, and Grant Grove
Higher-elevation locations such as Cedar Grove, Devils Postpile, Lake Wishon, and Florence Lake may experience deeper snowpack and visibility reductions.
Travel Conditions Likely to Become Hazardous
Roadways above 6,000 feet are expected to become snow-covered and slippery as the storm continues. Steady winds along exposed ridges may generate pockets of blowing snow, worsening visibility in areas where snowfall rates intensify.
Mountain travelers should be prepared for:
- Chain controls and possible delays
- Reduced visibility due to blowing snow
- Icy conditions during nighttime and early-morning hours
Those heading to high-elevation recreation areas such as Giant Forest, Lodgepole, Grant Grove, Johnsondale, and Tuolumne Meadows are urged to monitor California 511 and check national park websites for closures or restrictions before travel.
Commuters and Visitors Urged to Prepare
The advisory emphasizes that essential workers, early-morning commuters, and visitors to national parks should allow additional travel time and carry emergency supplies, including blankets, food, water, and traction devices.
Officials note that snowfall will gradually taper off late Tuesday night. However, cold overnight temperatures may leave lingering icy patches into Wednesday morning, increasing the risk of early-day travel issues.
Storm Expected to Ease Midweek
While this system moves out of the region late Tuesday, forecasters indicate that the Sierra could continue to see additional waves of mountain weather this week as cold air and lingering moisture remain in place. Travelers should stay alert to new forecasts and advisories from local authorities.
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