
Yosemite is included in an updated winter storm watch issued by the National Weather Service on Sunday at 8:47 p.m. The watch is valid from Tuesday 11 p.
m. until Thursday, Mar. 13 at 11 p.
m.The NWS Hanford CA said, “Heavy snow possible. Total snow accumulations of 1 to 3 feet above 4000 feet and up to 4 feet on the highest elevations.
Winds could gust as high as 55 mph.”“Travel could be very difficult to impossible. The hazardous conditions could impact the Wednesday morning and evening commutes.
Strong winds could cause tree damage,” according to the NWS. “Monitor the latest forecasts for updates on this situation.”The full list of affected locations includes:YosemiteYosemite ValleyMariposa-Madera Lower SierraFresno-Tulare Lower SierraSouth End of the Lower SierraSan Joaquin River CanyonUpper San Joaquin RiverKaiser to Rodgers RidgeKings Canyon NPGrant Grove areaSequoia NPSouth End of the Upper Sierra Where to find winter weather shelters in your county:Winter weather shelters in Santa Clara County: San Jose operates the Overnight Warming Location program.
Winter weather shelters in Alameda County: List of winter shelters operated in Alameda County, from Alameda County Health Care for the Homeless.Winter weather shelters in San Mateo County: San Mateo County residents in need of shelter should visit their local Core Service Agency in order to seek access to the Inclement Weather Program or other shelter programs.Winter weather shelters in Contra Costa County: For information about how to connect with all emergency shelters in Contra Costa, call 211 or click on the list of shelters provided by Contra Costa Health.
Winter weather shelters in Solano County: Solano County offers a list of centers where anyone can go to keep warm during extreme weather temperatures.Winter driving guide: Tips from the NWS for safe and sound travelsWinter weather can make driving treacherous, leading to over 6,000 weather-related vehicle fatalities and over 480,000 injuries each year. When traveling during snow or freezing rain, prioritize safety by slowing down.
In near-freezing temperatures, it’s safest to assume that icy conditions exist on roadways and adjust your driving accordingly. Be cautious of ice accumulating on power lines or tree branches, which can lead to snapping and falling hazards. If possible, avoid driving in such conditions.
If you must venture out, opt for routes with fewer trees and power lines. Never touch a downed power line, and immediately dial 911 if you come across one. Here are additional winter weather driving tips:Share your travel plans:When venturing out of town in hazardous winter weather, be sure to inform family or friends of your destination, your intended route, and your estimated arrival time.
Prepare your vehicle:Ensure your gas tank is full and equip your vehicle with essential winter supplies such as a windshield scraper, jumper cables, a small shovel, flashlight, cell phone, blanket, extra warm clothing, drinking water, and high-calorie non-perishable food.Stay calm when stranded:If you become stranded, remain composed. Inform someone about your situation and location.
Avoid attempting to walk to safety. Indicate that you need assistance by attaching a cloth to your car’s antenna or mirror, and make your vehicle more visible by using the dome light and flashersBe mindful of snow plows:Keep an eye out for snow plows and allow them ample room to pass. Only overtake a plow when you have a clear view of the road ahead.
Check road conditions:Before embarking on your journey, check the latest road conditions to make informed travel decisions.Stay safe on wintry roads with these valuable winter driving tips from the NWS, and reduce the risk of accidents during challenging weather conditions..