A historic storm is hitting the Sierra Nevada region in California, with forecasts of up to 10 feet of snow and extreme winds. Residents and visitors have been warned to seek shelter, and authorities are urging caution on the roads. The storm has raised concerns about avalanches and power outages, and the extreme conditions are expected to persist for several days.
One of the most powerful storms of the season has wreaked havoc in the Sierra Nevada region of California, causing chaos and necessitating evacuations in popular recreational areas such as Lake Tahoe and Yosemite National Park. The storm, expected to bring up to 10 feet of snow in some areas, has led to the closure of at least nine ski resorts in Lake Tahoe and urgent evacuations in Yosemite, according to The Associated Press.
The storm’s impact began on Thursday, with the most significant effects expected from Friday afternoon through Saturday. Snowstorm warnings are in effect until Sunday morning along a 300-mile stretch from north of Lake Tahoe to the south of Yosemite National Park. The National Weather Service in Reno has advised residents and visitors to seek shelter due to the continuing hazardous conditions.
Meteorologists predict winds exceeding 115 mph at the Sierra mountain peaks and 70 mph at lower elevations, creating extremely dangerous blizzard conditions. The forecast suggests the possibility of up to 10 feet of snow in the mountains around Lake Tahoe by the weekend, with 3 to 6 feet in lakeside communities and over a foot in the eastern Sierra foothills, including Reno.
During a briefing, UCLA climate scientist Daniel Swain emphasized the severity of the situation, referring to it as a “legitimate snowstorm” with blizzard conditions, heavy snowfall, strong winds, power outage risks, and delayed road clearance. Avalanche warnings have been issued in rural areas around Lake Tahoe, Yosemite National Park, and Mammoth Lakes.
In Yosemite, authorities have urged visitors to evacuate the park as soon as possible, with closures expected until at least Sunday midday. Badger Pass is anticipated to receive over 7 feet of snow. Travel restrictions have been imposed on a lengthy segment of Interstate 80 between Reno and Sacramento, and drivers are required to use tire chains for road safety.
The emergency situation caused by the storm underscores the importance of preparedness and caution in the face of extreme weather conditions. Residents and travelers in the Sierra Nevada region must heed official warnings, seek shelter, and take appropriate measures to ensure their safety during this challenging time.
