Lifestyle Trend: Heavy Snowstorm Warning Issued for 30 Counties in California as Conditions Worsen You Should Know

A powerful winter storm is poised to strike California beginning late Sunday, prompting the National Weather Service (NWS) to issue Winter Storm Warnings for 22 counties across central and northern portions of the state.

Forecasters warn that the multi-day system could deliver several feet of snow in the Sierra Nevada and surrounding mountain regions, accompanied by damaging winds and dangerous travel conditions through Wednesday night.

According to the NWS offices in Hanford, Sacramento, and Reno, the warning will take effect at 10 p.m. Sunday and remain in place until 10 p.m. Wednesday.

Heavy snow totals Expected

Snowfall totals are expected to range from 3 to 5 feet above 6,000 feet, with localized accumulations of up to 7 feet along the highest elevations of the Sierra crest. Areas between 4,000 and 6,000 feet could see 1 to 2 feet of snow, while lower elevations may receive lighter amounts as snow levels gradually drop.

Communities under the warning include Yosemite National Park, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, Mammoth Lakes, Shaver Lake, Bass Lake, Tehachapi, and Frazier Park. In Mono County, forecasters predict 1 to 3 feet of snow along and west of U.S. Highway 395, with 3 to 4 feet possible at higher elevations.

Ridge gusts in the Sierra may exceed 100 mph, while exposed areas could experience wind gusts between 45 and 65 mph.

“Travel could be very difficult to impossible with periods of whiteout conditions,” the National Weather Service in Reno stated in its advisory. Officials cautioned that strong winds may cause tree damage and power outages, particularly in higher elevations where heavy snow loads combine with gusty conditions.

Farther north, the Sacramento office warned that elevations above 3,500 feet in the Northern Sierra Nevada and Lassen Park region may receive between 4 and 8 feet of snow. Snow levels are forecast to start between 4,500 and 5,500 feet Sunday night before lowering to as low as 1,500 feet by Tuesday. Some areas along the Coastal Range and in Shasta County could see snow levels dip near 1,000 feet.

Storm to intensify on Monday and challenge travel

The most intense snowfall rates are anticipated Monday night through Tuesday evening, with conditions expected to deteriorate rapidly late Monday. Hazardous travel is likely along Interstate 80, Highway 50, Interstate 5, and other major mountain corridors. Chain controls, road closures, and significant delays are possible during peak commute hours.

Emergency officials are urging residents to prepare in advance. The NWS recommends carrying emergency supplies — including flashlights, food, water, and blankets — for those who must travel. Motorists can monitor road conditions by calling 511 or checking Caltrans’ QuickMap service online.

This winter system marks one of the most significant storms of the season for California’s mountain regions. Authorities continue to stress that residents should avoid unnecessary travel and closely monitor updated forecasts as the storm progresses through midweek.