Update: More Snow On The Way This Week

Photo by: BJ Hansen

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for the western slope of the northern Sierra Nevada, from 10 PM this evening until 10 PM Wednesday. Also, a Winter Weather Advisory has been issued for Yosemite National Park and the Sierra Nevada of Mariposa County, from 10 AM Wednesday through 4 AM Thursday.

Heavy snow is forecast.

Snow level elevations will range from 2,500 to 3,500 feet on Wednesday. The snow levels will then drop to as low as 2,000 feet, from Wednesday night into Thursday morning.

The heaviest amounts of snow accumulation is expected above 4,000 feet.

The total snow accumulations above the 2,000 foot elevation, will range from just a dusting to as much as a foot-and-a-half. The higher you go, the more the snow.

The winds could gust as high as fifty to sixty-five mph. Very strong winds could cause extensive tree damage in some areas, such as near the Sierra Nevada crest. Cold wind chills, as low as 20 below zero, are possible in the highest elevations that could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes.

Slow down and use caution while traveling. Travel may be very difficult to impossible with slick and snow-covered roads and possible road closures. Expect travel delays, chain controls, reduced visibility with whiteout conditions at times.

If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency.