Sierra Nevada early-season snowfall, Digi Mart USA News (Sierra Nevada, California): Several inches of snow blanketed the mountains overnight, giving the Sierra an early-season boost and bringing visitors out to enjoy fresh powder and blue skies. Forecasters have further winter weather ahead, and visitors are waiting to see whether this marks the start of a much snowier season.
Visitors described the storm and the scenery in positive terms. Dawn Oakley, who traveled from Yuba City, said the overnight downpour was followed by sunshine and glorious weather.
Ryan Skidmore, visiting from the Bay Area, said seeing snow-covered mountains is an annual tradition for him and his family, and that the drive is worthwhile when the snow is present.
The fresh snow is also encouraging seasonal activities. Oakley said her group planned to make snow ice cream that evening using the new snowfall.
El Niño is part of the winter outlook, and some visitors are hopeful the early snow signals a larger season. Oakley said she was very positive about the amount of snow expected this year.
Charlene Smith, visiting from Oroville, was more cautious, noting that the area has often received less snow than forecast, but said she hoped this year would be different and that she was ready for whatever winter brings.
Ski lifts remain closed until more snow falls before opening. Last season, a lack of snowfall forced several resorts to delay their openings.
This early-season storm offers skiers and mountain communities a more encouraging start, though the season’s final snow totals remain uncertain.
