Weather
A powerful multi-day winter storm takes aim on the Sierra midweek, followed by additional rounds of unsettled weather through early next week. Overall, expect periods of heavy snowfall and strong winds Wednesday through Thursday, a lighter system on Friday, a brief lull on Saturday, and another storm Sunday into Monday. Snow levels will generally fall well below pass level during these events, with occasional surges of slightly warmer air but plenty of cold air for good snow quality through much of the period.
Tuesday remains mild and mainly dry, setting the stage for a major winter storm arriving early Wednesday. Winds will ramp up throughout Tuesday, especially at higher elevations, but snowfall accumulations will be minimal ahead of the main event. By early Wednesday morning, precipitation will spread across the Sierra, dropping heavy snow through the day. Snow levels start around 4,500–6,000 feet but rapidly fall by late afternoon, leading to widespread accumulations above 4,000 feet. Early on Wednesday, snowfall ratios hover around 8–10:1 (a bit dense), but they’ll transition to roughly 12–15:1 later in the day for a moderately fluffy finish.
Thursday’s continuation of the storm keeps intense snowfall rates and blustery winds in play. Many areas above 4,000 feet could see 1–3 feet of fresh snow by Thursday evening, with localized totals near 4 feet along the highest peaks. Farther south near Mammoth, 2–4 feet is likely above 8,000 feet, with somewhat lower amounts at mid-mountain. Snow levels will remain at or below 4,500 feet throughout the day, ensuring primarily snow at resorts. With snow ratios occasionally pushing 14+:1 during peak intensity, conditions should remain pleasantly powdery, though strong ridge-top gusts may cause blowing snow and reduced visibility at times.
Another weaker system arrives on Friday, bringing additional light to moderate accumulations. Although totals likely won’t rival the midweek storm, mountain terrain should pick up fresh snow, with snow levels mostly remaining in the 3,500–5,000 foot range. By Saturday, expect only spotty shower activity—mostly north of I-80—allowing for a short-lived break. Another surge of moisture moves in Sunday into Monday, delivering more widespread snowfall and enhanced winds, especially on Sunday afternoon. Temperatures look cooler again, so snow quality could be fairly good. Light lingering snow showers may persist into Tuesday, but overall coverage should diminish by midday.
Looking further into mid to late March, below-normal temperatures and above-normal precipitation remain favored in the West. This pattern should help preserve the snowpack while allowing for additional storms heading into the latter half of the month. Keep an eye out for details on these potential systems, as the ongoing active weather could provide more powder opportunities before spring fully sets in.
7-Day Resort Forecast Totals
- Kirkwood – 41″–69” Tue night (03/11) – Mon night (03/17)
- Sugar Bowl – 35″–58” Tue night (03/11) – Mon night (03/17)
- Palisades Tahoe – 34″–57” Tue night (03/11) – Mon night (03/17)
- Mammoth – 29″–48” Wed (03/12) – Mon night (03/17)
- Heavenly – 20″–34” Wed (03/12) – Mon night (03/17)
- Northstar – 17″–29” Tue night (03/11) – Mon night (03/17)
- Mt Rose – 13″–23” Wed (03/12) – Mon night (03/17)
