Winter Storm Warning Issued as 18 Inches of Snow, 50 mph Winds Approach
Spring may be well underway throughout most of the country, but a major winter storm is set to strike this week that could make travel difficult for many on the West Coast and potentially impact some skiing and hiking trips.
This week, a major winter storm is set to strike the Sierra Nevada mountain chain in California, bringing "heavy" snow that could reach up to 18 inches in some areas as well as strong winds.
Winter Storm Warnings
On Monday morning, the National Weather Service (NWS) issued two winter storm warnings for a storm that is set to strike the California mountains this week, bringing strong winds and heavy snow, especially for higher elevations.
"Heavy snow likely above 5000 feet," the advisory reads. "Total snow accumulations of up to 12 to 18 inches, with up to 2 feet at the highest peaks. Minor accumulations of up to 2 inches possible down to 4500 feet. Southwest winds could gust as high as 50 mph."
The advisory warns that the storm will impact the cities of Shaver Lake, Cedar Grove, Wawona, Lake Wishon, Giant Forest, Lake Thomas Edison, Tuolumne Meadows, Huntington Lake, Lodgepole, Florence Lake, and Devils Postpile.
Additionally, the Sierra Nevada and southern Cascades are expected to be impacted.
The winter storm warnings are in effect from 2 a.m. on Tuesday morning until 5 p.m., with the NWS expecting the heaviest snowfall on Tuesday afternoon and evening.
"Snow levels initially 6000 to 7000 feet tonight, lowering to 5500 to 6500 feet Tuesday, and down to 4500 to 5500 feet Wednesday. Heaviest snowfall expected Tuesday afternoon and evening with snowfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour," the NWS warned.
Winter Storm Impacting National Parks
While the storm will primarily impact higher elevations, it could put a damper on anyone making a spring trip to a national park in the area or hoping for a ski trip.
The NWS warns that the winter storm will impact Yosemite National Park outside of the valley, Kings Canyon National Park, Sequoia National Park, and Lassen National Park. Additionally, the heavy snow is set to impact the Sierra Nevada and southern Cascades.
Travel Could be 'Difficult to Impossible'
Even if you are not traveling to one of these national parks, the NWS warns that the storm will impact travel on Highway 50 and Interstate 80.
"Travel could be very difficult to impossible," the NWS warns. "The hazardous conditions could impact the Tuesday morning and evening commutes. Strong winds could cause tree damage."
If you do have to drive in these conditions, the NWS has some helpful advice.
"If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 511," the NWS warns.
If you do have to travel through winter weather like this, here are some tips to keep you safe.
This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Apr 20, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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This story was originally published April 20, 2026 at 11:53 AM.