Heavy Snow — West Slope Northern Sierra Nevada, California

2025-02-12 to 2025-02-14 · West Slope Northern Sierra Nevada, California

Event narrative

The Sierra Snow Lab reported 11.8 inches in around 8 to 12 hours at 6894 feet. NOHRSC estimates a 48-Hour Total of 8 to 36 inches above 4500 feet with 2-4 feet along the highest peaks. CalTrans reported 2 to 3 feet at sites between 5000 to 7000 feet and ski resorts reporting 2 to 3 feet across 6000 to 9000 feet.

Wider weather episode

A strong winter storm from late February 12th into Friday, February 14th brought heavy snow, rain, and gusty winds. This brought from 1 to 6 inches of rain, with totals of 2 to nearly 4 feet of heavy snow above 4500 feet. Gusty southerly wind gusts of 25 to 50 mph in the Valley, 40 to 60 mph in the mountains and foothills were recorded. Roads were reported to be flooded, as well as covered with mud and rocks in some mountain and foothill areas. Numerous downed trees were reported during this time, along with mountain highway closures and chain restrictions, with roadway flooding in the Central Valley.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1235720. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.