Winter is not done with the Eastern Sierra just yet. A winter weather advisory is set to hit the eastern Sierra slopes of Inyo County from 11 p.m. Friday through 11 p.m. Sunday, bringing late-season mountain snow and strong winds that could turn weekend travel into a slog. Higher elevations are in line for several inches of new snow along with gusty winds that may reach damaging speeds.
What forecasters are saying
According to the National Weather Service Las Vegas, which issued the advisory late Thursday, snow totals are expected to reach 3 to 7 inches between 8,000 and 9,500 feet and 8 to 12 inches above 9,500 feet, with some ridgelines topping out above a foot. Forecasters also warn that winds could gust up to 60 mph, cutting visibility and potentially snapping tree limbs or bringing down power lines.
Roads and backcountry risks
“Roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous,” the National Weather Service Las Vegas cautioned. Backcountry users are urged to keep close tabs on changing weather and avalanche conditions. The Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center posts daily advisories for popular areas around Mammoth, Whitney Portal and the Owens Valley.
How to prepare
If you have to be on the move, plan for extra travel time, carry chains or other traction devices and keep an emergency kit stocked with food, water and warm layers in your vehicle. For the latest road conditions, call Caltrans at 1-800-427-7623 or check updates from Caltrans, and follow any closures or instructions from local public-safety officials. The advisory was first reported by the Modesto Bee, which relayed the NWS guidance for eastern Inyo County.
