Storm to Bring Whiteouts to the Mountains of California
A late-season storm system will bring heavy snow and high winds to the mountains of California later today into Monday, rendering travel nearly impossible in some areas. Some elevations over 5,000 feet will pick up several feet of snow by the end of the day Monday.
While travelers will not appreciate the snow, ski resort owners and winter sports enthusiasts sure will.
The bulk of the snow will first start spreading into the mountains of northern California and the Sierra late this afternoon and continue through Monday. Winds will be strongest during the afternoon and evening, gusting between 50 and 70 mph.
Roads will become snowcovered and slippery tonight into Monday with Interstate 80 included. Even portions of I-5 through the mountains of northern California could become snowy and dangerous by tonight.
Travelers should also be prepared for significant blowing of the snow and near white-out conditions due to the winds. Dangerous crosswinds alone will be a hazard to high-profile vehicles, which become susceptible to tipping over.
People planning on traveling through the Sierra through Monday may want to postpone their trip.
If you must travel, be sure to check for restrictions in advance. More than likely, chains will end up being required on all vehicles. Travel may not be allowed at all on some roads or for oversized vehicles on some roads.
Related to the Story:
Western Weather with Ken Clark
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Daily U.S. Extremes
past 24 hours
| Extreme | Location | |
|---|---|---|
| High | 113° | Death Valley, CA |
| Low | 30° | Bellemont, AZ |
| Precip | 9.70" | Miami, FL |
WeatherWhys®
A large, horrific tornado struck the city of Joplin, Mo., last year on this date. The twister cut a deadly path across the south side of the city, leaving over 159 dead and at least 1,150 injured. The Joplin tornado currently ranks as the 7th deadliest tornado in U.S. history.
This Day In Weather History
New Hampshire (1814)
A tornado crossed Merrimac, Litchfield, Londonderry and North Chester. The same storm produced hailstones that had an 11-inch circumference and weighed 1/2 pound.
Northeast (1989)
More rain in an already wet month. Monthly totals topped 11 inches at New York City, 9 inches at Bridgeport, Conn., and 8 inches at Baltimore (all three totals set records for May).
Rough Weather
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