California Blizzard Conditions Continue with Whiteouts and Impossible Travel Conditions
Extreme Snowfall and Damaging Winds Hit Northern California
Blizzard conditions have been relentlessly pounding Northern California, with heavy snowfall and damaging winds impacting both mountainous and valley regions. The Sierra Nevada area remains particularly vulnerable, with hurricane-force winds and whiteout conditions causing treacherous situations.
Winter Weather Alerts and Blizzard Warnings
As the storm rages on, approximately 6.5 million people in the Mountain West region are under winter weather alerts. Blizzard warnings are still in effect for the Sierra Nevada, making travel virtually impossible in these areas. The highest elevations are experiencing the most extreme conditions, further exacerbating the safety risks.
Interstate 80 Closed and Avalanche Danger
The severity of the snowfall, measured at rates of 2-6 inches per hour, combined with winds exceeding 100 mph, has forced the closure of a 70-mile stretch of Interstate 80 near the Nevada state line for over 24 hours. The Weather Prediction Center has also issued warnings regarding the “high to extreme” avalanche danger in the Central Sierra and Greater Lake Tahoe area.
Widespread Power Outages and Resort Closures
With snowfall forecasted to reach between 5-12 feet along the Sierra Nevada, power outages have become a significant concern. More than 12,000 homes and businesses in California are currently without power. Ski fields and chairlifts, including popular resorts like Palisades Tahoe, Sierra at Tahoe, and Mammoth, have been forced to close, leading to delayed starts for some.
The National Weather Service’s Forecast and Future Storms
The National Weather Service predicts a gradual reduction in the intensity of the snow and high winds across the Sierra Nevada and Intermountain West by Monday. However, additional upper-level energies arriving from the Pacific are expected to maintain the unstable cold air mass over a large section of the western US, ensuring continued snowfall. Frequent rounds of mountain snow are also forecasted for the central Rockies in the coming days, with a new system expected to impact the region on Monday.
Whiteouts and ‘Impossible’ Travel Conditions
The storm’s extreme snowfall and roaring winds have resulted in blowing snow and whiteout conditions, making travel conditions virtually impossible. US 395, the main road to Mammoth Mountain ski resort, experienced hours of closure on Saturday due to the blizzard’s impact. Local authorities and emergency personnel faced difficulties in reaching stranded motorists and vehicles stuck in snow over Donner Summit.
Yosemite National Park and Road Conditions
While Yosemite National Park temporarily closed on Friday due to the storm, partial reopening is expected on Sunday. However, visitors are advised to expect snowy conditions and may be required to use tire chains on roadways throughout the park. Road conditions should be closely monitored, especially considering the continued blizzard warning that remains in effect until Sunday evening.
