THE STORM: DAY 4 – CLOSED 12/26
The storm grew in intensity overnight with extremely high winds and heavy snowfall. We’ve received 6 feet of snow on the mountain since the start of this storm and more than 2 of those feet came in just 24 hours.
Winds have been howling, with gusts clocking in today at over 100 mph. The snow that has fallen since Friday night came in with these high winds and cold temperatures, resulting in low-density, light snow. The intense winds blow around the light snow that has accumulated, resulting in virtually no visibility on the mountain. Avalanche danger is also high due to the rapid accumulation of snow and high winds. Patrol teams performed avalanche control at both mountains and the Alpine Meadows Road today when they could safely do so. In some cases, our crews were not able to fully observe results as the visibility was too low. These conditions make it nearly impossible for crews to complete work necessary to open the mountain. Lift operations at both mountains were closed today.
Tomorrow Looks More Promising
Even though the lifts were closed today, many of our crews continued to work on digging out lifts, building, and other facilities. With another foot of snow possible tonight, we will need to complete extensive avalanche control again tomorrow, and re-build access roads that have been buried in this storm. We expect to be able to open lower mountain lifts in the morning but check our app and @PalisadesOps Twitter for real-time updates in the morning.
I-80 Closed and Hazardous Driving Conditions
This storm has resulted in road closures and dangerous driving conditions on many roads. I-80 is currently closed from Colfax to the Nevada state line and will be closed for the remainder of the day.
Expect chain controls, possibly more road closures, poor visibility or whiteouts, and extreme delays as this storm hammers on. Please know before you go, and use your best judgment in deciding when to travel.
SAVE THESE LINKS & USE THEM TO PLAN YOUR TRAVEL DAY.
- For the most in-depth, detailed forecast, visit the NOAA Weather forecast for Olympic Valley. Adjust the location according to your route.
- To view highway webcams, closure, chain control, and incident information in California, use the Caltrans Quickmap Website & App
- To view highway webcams, closure, chain control, and incident information in Nevada, use the NV Roads 511 Website & App
- To check the status of California highway closures, use Caltrans Highway Status
If you simply must travel during the height of the storm, here are some things to remember.
- Have extra water, food, medications, and warm clothing in the car with you. Be prepared to be waiting for long periods of time.
- Carry chains and know how to use them.
- Do not leave the area without a full tank of gas.
- Become familiar with this list of Winter Driving Tips.
