We’ve received report today from the Mono Country Sheriff’s Department that 9,943-foot Tioga Pass will be closing on Sunday, November at 4pm and may stay closed for the season.

“Our first winter storm is still on schedule to arrive Sunday evening. It looks like Tioga Pass (SR 120) will be closing at 4:00p on Sunday. The could possibly be the season closure. Please plan accordingly when traveling through our beautiful Eastern Sierra this weekend! Happy travels and be safe!” – Mono Country Sheriff’s Department

Backcountry skiing off Tioga Pass, CA. photo: greg burnett

This closure is in response to the 8-16 inches of snow and up to 100mph winds that are forecast for Yosemite’s high country on Sunday and Monday. NOAA has issued a Winter Storm Watch for Yosemite for Sunday and Monday.

NOAA’s WINTER STORM WATCH for YOSEMITE:

-SIERRA NEVADA FROM YOSEMITE TO KINGS CANYON-

...WINTER STORM WATCH NOW IN EFFECT FROM SUNDAY EVENING THROUGH
MONDAY EVENING ABOVE 7000 FEET...

* HAZARD TYPES...HEAVY SNOW.

* ACCUMULATIONS...8 TO 16 INCHES ABOVE 7000 FEET.