LOS ANGELES (CNS) - A winter storm warning indicating dreadful travel conditions will be in force this morning in the San Gabriel Mountains, forecasters said.
“An upper low southwest of California will wrap moisture back across the San Gabriel Mountains, becoming heavy at times ... resulting in snowfall of 12 to 18 inches above 5,000 feet,” according to a National Weather Service statement. “Significant blowing and drifting snow will be possible due to gusty north-northeast winds in the mountains. Use extreme caution if heading into the mountains, allow extra travel time, and have a winter survival kit.”
The NWS said snow will taper to scattered snow showers by this afternoon with little additional accumulations.
In the event of heavier snow squalls, 12 to 18 inches of snow could accumulate above 5,000 feet,” warned the NWS statement. At the same time, gusty north-to-northeast
winds of up to 45 miles per hour will create near-whiteout conditions at times. These conditions will be especially prevalent in the Big Pines, Wrightwood and Mt. Baldy Resort areas, according to the statement.
“Plan on difficult winter travel conditions. Main roadways to be impacted include Angeles Crest Highway, Big Pines Highway, and Mt. Baldy Road. Be prepared for significant reductions in visibility at times,” it said.
The NWS noted that a Winter Storm Warning means severe “winter weather conditions will make travel very hazardous or impossible. If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency.”
The weather service forecast partly cloudy skies this morning and a 20 percent chance of measurable precipitation in the Greater Los Angeles area, followed by sunny conditions.
It said another trough moving southeast over the Great Basin will bring gusty winds and a slight chance of showers late tonight and early Wednesday.
“Otherwise, dry and warmer weather accompanied by locally gusty offshore winds will prevail Thursday through next weekend, according to the NWS.
The NWS forecast partly cloudy skies in L.A. County today and sunshine in Orange County, with highs in the 60s.
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