Winter Weather Advisory: California Mountains Hit with Heavy Snow and Chain Requirements

A winter weather advisory is now central to public attention as heavy snowfall blankets Southern California mountains and travel troubles spread across the Sierra Nevada. Back-to-back storms have left deep snow in mountain communities, icy roads and active chain requirements that are shaping travel plans.

Winter Weather Advisory: What the current mountain conditions look like

After a run of consecutive storms, Southern California is beginning to dry out, but mountain areas remain heavily impacted. Up to three feet of snow has fallen in parts of the San Bernardino Mountains, and many roads climbing into mountain communities remain icy. Travel disruptions in the Sierra Nevada have been captured on video, illustrating the challenges drivers are facing.

Driving rules and on-the-ground enforcement

State patrol officers are urging drivers to be prepared before attempting mountain routes. A level 2 chain requirement is in place on most roads going up to mountain communities. Under that requirement, chains or traction devices are required for all cars except vehicles with four-wheel drive or all-week drive with four snow-tread tires; however, those exempt vehicles must still carry chains in case conditions worsen. Some drivers who tried to head up without chains were turned away by officers.

• Roads: Many mountain roads remain icy; clearing skies have increased the risk of black ice during colder overnight lows.
• Speed guidance: Driving at about 25 mph is recommended where conditions are slick.
• Equipment: Carry chains or traction devices, even if your vehicle is exempt from immediate use.

Practical tips for travelers

Preparation matters when traveling into snowy mountain areas. Travelers are advised to bring extra water, food and blankets in case of delays or being turned back. Drivers unfamiliar with chains have been forced to learn on the spot, underscoring the importance of knowing how to fit traction devices before a trip.

The situation remains fluid: storm activity has moved out in some areas, producing clearer skies, but that change can lead to colder overnight temperatures that increase black ice risk. Travelers should factor in the continued presence of icy roads and chain requirements when planning any mountain travel.

Videos and other on-the-ground coverage show travel troubles across the Sierra Nevada alongside the heavy snow in Southern California mountains. The winter weather advisory framing these conditions highlights ongoing impacts to mountain communities and the need for heightened driver preparedness.