MOUNTAIN AREA — The National Weather Service (NWS) in Hanford is reporting that our next storm system will start to hit the Central California Interior beginning late Friday and continue into the weekend. The exact track and timing are still uncertain, say the experts, but this system has the potential to bring hazardous impacts to the region. Snow is likely for the high country, with rain in the foothills and valley, gusty winds, and localized flooding.
A Winter Storm Watch is in effect for the Sierra Nevada from Yosemite down to Kings Canyon and Tulare County mountains, Hanford reports, beginning the afternoon of Friday, Jan. 29 and remaining in effect through late Sunday night, Jan. 31.
Hazards include the potential for heavy accumulation of snow with one to two feet possible above 7,000 feet. Snow level is expected to start above 8,000 feet on Friday and at this time is projected to lower below 4,000 feet by Sunday.
The heaviest accumulations will occur Friday through Saturday night according to the NWS. Watch for snow-covered roads, blowing and drifting snow, and be aware of hazardous driving conditions. Travel delays are likely with the possibility of road closures. Snow and winds gusting to 70 miles per hour at times may cause trees, branches or limbs to fall so conditions will be dangerous for hikers and campers.
Stay tuned for updates and specifics as the forecast evolves.
Snow conditions and road closures in Yosemite
National Weather Service in Hanford, California
