Weather
A winter storm will bring significant snowfall to the California mountains midweek and again toward the weekend, delivering healthy powder for ski areas. Expect a mild and dry start through Monday, then a weak disturbance Tuesday, followed by a strong winter storm Wednesday–Thursday with notable snow totals and gusty winds, and additional unsettled weather possibly bringing more snow through the weekend. Overall, conditions look favorable for deep powder turns across the region, especially mid to late week.
Expect mellow, spring-like conditions to dominate through Monday. By Tuesday, a weak system approaches. This disturbance looks minor, with a small chance of light snow showers at higher elevations in the Reno/Tahoe area, but little to no accumulation elsewhere. Winds begin to ramp up in the afternoon, signaling the arrival of a more substantial storm on Wednesday.
The main event arrives Wednesday and continues into Thursday, bringing heavy snow and strong winds. Early Wednesday, snow spreads across the northern Sierra and quickly intensifies, with 2–3 inch-per-hour rates possible by evening. Snow levels will start around 5,000–5,500 feet in parts of the Sierra, dropping to near 2,500–3,000 feet by Thursday morning. Above 4,000 feet, significant accumulations are likely, and above 5,000 feet, totals could surpass 2–3 feet. The Reno/Tahoe corridor and Mammoth region can expect 1–2 feet or more, with strong south to southwest winds possibly impacting lift operations at times. Snow ratios in many spots will fall in the 10–17:1 range, delivering solid, moderately dry powder.
Friday through Sunday remains active, with additional storms likely to bring more mountain snow. Though exact details are still evolving, another wave may arrive as early as Friday afternoon, keeping snowfall in the forecast and potentially adding fresh accumulations heading into the weekend. Winds could again be gusty with each wave, but the continued storm track should favor ongoing powder conditions. The general pattern suggests further opportunities for snowfall beyond the weekend. Stay tuned for updates, as more snow could be on tap for late-season turns!
7-Day Resort Forecast Totals
- Kirkwood – 25″–48” Tue night (03/11) – Fri night (03/14)
- Mammoth – 20″–39” Tue night (03/11) – Fri night (03/14)
- Sugar Bowl – 20″–38” Tue night (03/11) – Fri night (03/14)
- Palisades Tahoe – 18″–35” Tue night (03/11) – Fri night (03/14)
- Heavenly – 10″–21” Tue night (03/11) – Fri night (03/14)
- Northstar – 9″–19” Tue night (03/11) – Fri night (03/14)
- Mt. Rose – 7″–14” Tue night (03/11) – Fri night (03/14)
