California’s mountains are bracing for a lengthy, active winter season, with the most significant snowfall forecast from midweek to Christmas—and additional storms on the way after that.
The first portion of the pattern, which spans the weekend and into Monday, appears to be wet and windy. Snow levels will remain rather high, particularly around Lake Tahoe, so lower elevations may experience heavy, dense snowfall or possibly mixed precipitation. Higher terrain will continue to receive snow, but this phase is more about establishing covering than chasing smooth turns, with strong winds likely damaging exposed ridgelines and lifts.
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The real shift occurs late Tuesday. Cooler air flowing into the Sierra will lower snow levels to the mid-mountain zone just in time for Christmas. This decrease indicates higher-quality snow and more regular accumulation among resorts. This is shaping up to be the most productive timeframe of the week, with higher snowfall rates and conditions improving substantially as temperatures drop.
If the prognosis is correct, some resorts could see record revenues. Kirkwood is presently expected to receive between 56 and 100 inches of snow by Saturday night. Mammoth Mountain could gain 44 to 81 inches, with the majority falling after Tuesday night. Palisades Tahoe may receive 38 to 69 inches of rain, while Sugar Bowl is expected to receive 40 to 72 inches within the same time frame. Even lower-total destinations like Heavenly and Northstar might get 20 to 45 inches.
After Christmas, the storm track remains active. Forecasts continue to hint to above-average precipitation statewide, leaving the door open for fresh rounds of mountain snow through next weekend. While snow quality will remain dependent on storm timing and snow levels, the general trend points to a much stronger winter picture for California’s high country.
