Heavy Snow Warning Issued as 4 Feet of Snow, 55 mph Winds Hit: 'Delay All Travel'
Spring is officially on hold in the Sierra Mountains this weekend as the region braces for up to four feet of snow and 55 mph winds.
A mature low pressure system off the Pacific coast will move inland Friday and Saturday that will bring a significant pattern change characterized by widespread rain, isolated thunderstorms, and heavy mountain snow.
"Significant snowfall accumulations are expected for the Sierra Nevada at higher elevations. Widespread rain and cooling temperatures will spread across California and the Great Basin, eventually reaching the Northern Rockies by Saturday," the National Weather Service said.
Sierra Mountains Expected to See Very Heavy Snowfall
Western Plumas County, Lassen Park West Slope and Northern Sierra Nevada, including the cities of Quincy, Blue Canyon, and Chester in California are bracing for up to four feet of snow.
"Heavy snow with total snow accumulations 1 to 2 feet above 4500 feet, with up to 3 to 4 feet at the highest peaks. Minor snowfall accumulations of 2 to 4 inches down to 4000 feet. Winds could gust as high as 50 mph," the National Weather Service wrote.
Active weather brings showers, strong to severe thunderstorms, gusty southerly winds & heavy mountain snow through the weekend. A Winter Storm Warning is in effect from Friday evening - Sunday evening, heaviest Saturday PM-Sunday.
— NWS Sacramento (@NWSSacramento) April 9, 2026
Forecast: https://t.co/7FMe5tvLcs #CAwx pic.twitter.com/nBhe2LkecY
Travel in the region could be very difficult to impossible while the hazardous conditions could impact the Friday evening commute and weekend mountain travel.
National Weather Service Warns Against Travel
Up to 24 inches of snow is expected in Madera and Mariposa Counties and Yosemite National Park above 7,000 ft with winds gusting to 55 mph or higher.
Given the heavy snow and dangerous winds making visibility a significant issue, the National Weather Service issued a warning to residents in the region to delay all travel.
"Persons should delay all travel if possible," it said. "If travel is absolutely necessary, drive with extreme caution and be prepared for sudden changes in visibility."
The NWS warned those traveling to "leave plenty of room between you and the motorist ahead of you, and allow extra time to reach your destination."
The winter storm warning from the National Weather Service is in effect until Sunday night.
Related: Winter Storm Watch Issued as 4 Feet of Snow, 90 mph Winds Approach: 'Stay Indoors'