California’s life-threatening blizzard persists, more Sierra Nevada snow expected
OAN’s Elizabeth Volberding
10:35 AM – Sunday, March 3, 2024
The National Weather Service has issued winter storm warnings for California’s Sierra Nevada, and the snowfall is expected to continue increasing throughout Sunday.
Since Thursday, the Sierra Nevada area in California has been hit by relentless blizzard conditions. As a result, a significant portion of Interstate 80 has been closed, and residents have been urged to find shelter due to the dangerous combination of strong winds and heavy snowfall.
The National Weather Service reported a whiteout on Saturday, with over three inches of snow falling every hour and winds exceeding 100 mph, making travel impossible in the area.
A second, less intense system is expected to bring more snow on Monday, but for now, the massive blizzard continues to pound the Sierra Nevada mountains.
This storm, which has lasted for several days, has forced the closure of national parks, ski resorts, and a section of a major freeway in California.
High-elevation areas could see up to 10 feet of snow, posing a life-threatening risk to residents of Lake Tahoe and nearby regions, according to National Weather Service meteorologist William Churchill.
By Sunday night, the area is expected to receive between five and twelve feet of snow, with higher elevations experiencing more snowfall and lower elevations likely seeing rain.
Millions of people from California to Colorado are being impacted by wind gusts exceeding 50 mph, even in areas with less snowfall.
With more blizzard and winter storm warnings expanding to Northern California and Nevada, this is the most significant snowstorm of the season.
The weather service has issued a “HIGH to EXTREME avalanche danger” in the backcountry until Monday morning in the central Sierra slopes, including the Lake Tahoe area.
The primary highway connecting Reno and Sacramento, Interstate 80, remains closed with no estimated reopening time, according to the California Highway Patrol.
Power outages caused by the storm have affected thousands of customers in the affected areas, as reported by Pacific Gas & Electric. Downed power lines and fallen trees continue to pose hazards in the region.
According to PowerOutage.us, as of Sunday morning, 14,700 power users in California are still without electricity.
“We’re going to work diligently to keep the community and the public safe,” said Dave Ebbert, a supervisor for the utility business operating in the Sierra region. “We’re going to restore power safely in the most timely manner possible.”
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What safety warnings and precautions are being advised to residents due to the storm?
Possible.”
In addition to power outages and closed roads, the storm has also impacted air travel. Many flights into and out of Reno-Tahoe International Airport have been canceled or delayed due to the weather conditions. Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for updated flight information.
The severe weather conditions have also prompted various agencies to issue safety warnings. The California Department of Transportation advises against unnecessary travel and encourages motorists to carry emergency supplies, including food, water, and warm clothing, in case they become stranded.
The storm has disrupted daily life in the region, with schools, businesses, and government offices closing. Many residents have been advised to stay indoors and avoid travel unless necessary.
Emergency response teams, including first responders and search and rescue teams, have been working tirelessly to assist those affected by the storm. The National Guard has also been deployed to provide support and aid in snow removal efforts.
While the snowstorm has brought challenges and hardships, it has also created opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Ski resorts in the Sierra Nevada mountains are experiencing record-breaking snowfall, providing excellent conditions for skiing and snowboarding.
As the storm continues to impact the region, authorities are urging residents to stay informed and follow safety guidelines. It is essential to listen to local news updates, heed evacuation orders if necessary, and check on the well-being of neighbors, especially the elderly or those with special needs.
The winter storm in the Sierra Nevada mountains serves as a reminder of the power and unpredictability of nature. It highlights the importance of preparedness and resilience in the face of extreme weather events. Communities and individuals must come together to support one another and overcome the challenges posed by such storms.
The Sierra Nevada snowstorm is an opportunity for reflection and appreciation of the bravery and dedication of the individuals working tirelessly to keep the community safe and restore normalcy. It is also a time to recognize the resilience and determination of the residents affected by the storm. Through collective efforts, communities can recover and rebuild stronger in the aftermath of such natural disasters.
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