CALIFORNIA: Several ski resorts in California have opted to close their doors as a massive snowstorm is poised to strike the Sierra Nevada region over the approaching weekend. The BBC forecasts indicate that California and the Sierra Nevada are bracing for up to 10 feet of snowfall and mountain wind gusts reaching 140mph.
The highest elevations are expected to bear the brunt of the severe weather, with heavy snowfall and strong winds anticipated. The storm’s arrival began on Thursday, with snowfall rates of three to five inches (7.6cm to 12.7cm) per hour projected for Friday and Saturday.
The Weather Prediction Centre warns of significant disruptions in Sierra Nevada’s higher elevations, with travel conditions ranging from extremely dangerous to impossible, and the potential for avalanches. Consequently, authorities have closed I-80, Yosemite National Park, and more than a dozen ski resorts around Lake Tahoe.
Although car collisions and vehicle accidents have been reported, there are no reports of serious injuries. This storm follows a slow start to the snow season, crucial for California’s water supply. Conditions are expected to improve by Monday, but the region may face additional snowfall next week.
