The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for the Northern Sierra Nevada (above 5,000 feet), from Friday morning until Monday Afternoon. Additionally, a Winter Storm Watch has also been issued for Yosemite National Park (above the Valley floor), from Friday afternoon through late Monday night.
Heavy snow is forecast, mostly for elevations above 6,000 feet.
The snow levels are likely to start out between 7,000 and 8,000 feet on Friday, before lowering to 6,500 feet on Saturday, then down to around 5,000 feet by Monday morning. The heaviest snowfall is expected Friday night into Saturday morning.
There could be a break during the day Saturday, followed by additional snow Saturday night into Monday.
Light flurries to a dusting could result with about an inch of snow at the 5,000 foot elevation. However, the total measurable snow accumulations above the 6,000 foot elevation, will range from half-a-foot to two feet.
Winds may gust as high as fifty to sixty mph. Such strong winds could cause downed tree branches and localized power outages.
Travel could be very difficult to impossible. Highways that will be affected include State Route 4 and State Route 108. The hazardous conditions could impact weekend travel.
Monitor the latest forecasts for updates on this situation.
