Winter Storm — Joshua Tree Np West, California

2019-12-26 to 2019-12-27 · Joshua Tree Np West, California

Event narrative

A slow moving, strong and deep Pacific low pressure system passed by to the south of Joshua Tree National Park on Thursday December 26th and in the process brought very heavy snow along with blowing snow to the higher elevations of the park. The heaviest snow fell at elevations of 4000 feet and above across western portions of the park. Most of the heavy snow fell by the middle of the afternoon, with lighter amounts persisting into the early morning hours on Friday. According to measurements taken by the park superintendent the morning of the 27th, heaviest totals ranged from 24 to 30 inches. The Keys View location measured 30 inches of storm total snow, with 24 inches measured by the Lost Horse RAWS weather station. Gusty winds 30 mph or more brought some blowing snow and dangerously low visibility to the motorists attempting to drive in the park. A Winter Storm Warning was in effect at the time of the heavy snow. Fortunately there were no reports of accidents or injuries due to the hazardous driving conditions.

Wider weather episode

A strong and cold Pacific upper level low pressure system developed along the far southern California coast during the early portion of the week; it moved slowly east and along the Mexican border Thursday December 26th into Friday and in the process brought very heavy snow to the higher elevations of Joshua Tree National Park. Most of the heavy snow occurred during the early and middle portions of the 26th; the areas primarily affected were elevations above 4000 feet across the western portions of the park. Gusty winds reaching 30 mph or more led to some blowing snow and dangerously low visibility to those driving in the park. Based on snow measurements taken by the park superintendent, snow totals for the duration of the event reached between 24 and 30 inches. The highest total of 30 inches occurred at the Keys View location. Winter Storm Warnings were issued and in effect at the time of the heavy snow.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 863233. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.