A rare blizzard warning has been issued for the Sierra Nevada region, affecting popular ski resorts at Mammoth Mountain and around Lake Tahoe. Officials are advising people to avoid travel during the treacherous weather expected from Thursday through Sunday.

The latest forecasts predict up to 8 feet of snow to fall in the area. The blizzard warning stretches from Lassen Volcanic National Park in Shasta County to Kings Canyon National Park in Fresno County.

The most extreme conditions are expected on Friday night through Saturday morning, with heavy snowfall and strong winds causing snow to accumulate at a rate of 3 to 5 inches per hour. Wind gusts on the Sierra crest are forecasted to exceed 100 mph, potentially leading to power outages and fallen trees.

The National Weather Service office in Reno strongly emphasized the dangers of traveling during this time, warning of disorienting whiteout conditions and urging residents to prioritize safety. They stated, “Whiteout conditions are very disorienting, so this is not the time to gamble with you or your family’s lives, especially over a planned weekend ski vacation.”

Predictions suggest that elevations above 7,000 feet in the Tahoe Basin could receive 4 to 8 feet of snow, while towns around Lake Tahoe may see 2 to 4 feet of snow. In Mono County, where Mammoth Mountain is situated, 3 to 6 feet of snow is anticipated along the Sierra crest, with 1 to 3 feet expected along Highway 395.

Authorities are urging residents to take the storm seriously and make necessary preparations. Travelers are advised to have a winter kit and extra supplies if they must journey through the Sierra during the storm. The weather service office in Reno cautioned, “Nothing like an unsafe, impromptu camping trip in your car on Donner Pass.”

Flight delays, canceled flights, tire chain requirements for motorists, and disorientation from whiteout conditions are all potential hazards of this severe weather event. Donner Pass on Interstate 80 and Echo Summit on Highway 50 are forecasted to receive 6 to 8 feet and 5 to 7 feet of snow, respectively.

Additionally, caution is advised when traveling on roads above 1,000 feet in northwest California, where heavy snowfall is expected down to elevations as low as 500 feet. Interstate 5 near the city of Mount Shasta could receive up to 18 inches of snow.

Southern California may experience lighter snowfall, with a 20% to 30% chance of up to 1 inch of snow along Interstate 5 over the Tejon Pass and 1 to 2 inches along Highway 58 over the Tehachapi Pass.

The blizzard warning extends to areas of Yosemite National Park and Yosemite Valley, with heavy snow accumulation and blowing snow expected. While the storm is anticipated to lessen by Sunday, scattered snow showers may persist.

In surrounding areas, such as Los Angeles, Ventura, the San Francisco Bay Area, and the Sacramento Valley, rain, snow, and gusty winds are forecasted throughout the weekend.

Despite the challenges posed by this storm, residents and travelers are encouraged to stay informed, heed official warnings, and prioritize safety above all else.