A powerful winter storm is bearing down on California’s Sierra Nevada region, prompting Winter Storm Warnings and Weather Advisories across four counties.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the storm will bring significant snowfall, gusty winds, and dangerous travel conditions starting late Monday evening through Wednesday afternoon.
The warning highlights potentially life-threatening weather, particularly for higher elevations where snow totals are expected to reach 12 to 24 inches, and wind gusts may exceed 50 mph. Affected areas include popular destinations like Yosemite National Park, Mono County, Kings Canyon, Sequoia National Park, and Lassen Park.
Authorities are urging residents and travelers to avoid unnecessary travel, especially into the backcountry or mountain passes. Conditions are expected to worsen quickly overnight, and with visibility dropping and wind chills intensifying, officials stress that the storm must be taken seriously.
Affected Counties in California
The Winter Storm Warning and Advisories are focused on the heart of the Sierra Nevada, spanning from the southern high country near Yosemite and the Upper San Joaquin River, to the northern slopes of Plumas County and Lassen Park. Here’s a breakdown:
Yosemite NP Outside of the Valley
This includes regions like Tuolumne Meadows, Wawona, and Devils Postpile. The valley itself is not under the warning, but surrounding elevations above 7000 feet are expected to see 18+ inches of snow and strong winds, making travel into and out of the park treacherous.
Upper San Joaquin River and Kaiser to Rodgers Ridge
Remote but heavily forested, this area is forecasted to receive up to 24 inches of snow at higher elevations, particularly around Shaver Lake and Florence Lake.
Kings Canyon NP, Sequoia NP, and the South Sierra
A Winter Weather Advisory covers this region, with expected snow totals ranging from 4 to 10 inches above 6000 feet, and up to 18 inches above 7000 feet. Iconic areas like Giant Forest and Grant Grove are included.
Mono County and the Eastern Sierra Slopes
The popular tourist destinations of Mammoth Lakes, Lee Vining, and Bridgeport fall under this advisory. Expect up to 12 inches above 7000 feet, but strong 70 mph gusts on the Sierra Crest will amplify the risk of whiteouts and road blockages.
Snowfall Projections by Elevation
Accumulations Above 7000 Feet
The most impacted…
Read full article: Heavy Snowstorm Warning Issued for 4 California Counties
The post “Heavy Snowstorm Warning Issued for 4 California Counties” by Luka Trcek was published on 02/10/2026 by www.travelinglifestyle.net