Yosemite Braces for Heavy Snowfall
Yosemite Braces for Heavy Snowfall
As of January 3, 2026, Yosemite National Park is under a Winter Storm Warning as a powerful atmospheric river impacts the Sierra Nevada. Park officials and meteorologists are warning of life-threatening travel conditions and massive snow accumulations through the weekend.
If you are planning to visit or are currently in the park, here is the critical breakdown of what to expect:
❄️ Forecast & Snow Accumulation
The heaviest bands of snow are expected to hit today, Saturday, January 3, and continue through Sunday night, January 5.
Total Accumulations: Higher elevations (above 7,000 feet) could see between 2 to 4 feet of fresh powder by Monday morning.
Saturday (Jan 3): Up to 23 inches of snow is possible in a single day, with snow levels dropping to 5,000–6,000 feet.
Saturday Night: An additional 11 inches are forecasted.
Sunday (Jan 4): Continued heavy snow throughout the morning, tapering to showers by evening.
Wind & Visibility: Winds are gusting up to 55 mph, which will likely create whiteout conditions and significantly reduce visibility on mountain passes.
🚦 Road Closures & Chain Requirements
Winter travel in Yosemite is currently hazardous. You should expect significant delays and mandatory stops for chain checks.
Seasonal Closures: Tioga Road (Hwy 120 through the park) and Glacier Point Road are closed for the season.
Active Entrances: Hwys 41, 140, and 120 (West) remain open but will likely move to R2 or R3 chain controls.
Chain Requirement: ALL vehicles (including 4WD and rentals) are legally required to carry tire chains when entering the park during this window. If you do not have them, you will be turned away at the gate.
Hetch Hetchy: This road typically closes during active snowfall or when snow is in the overnight forecast.
⚠️ Essential Safety Tips
Note: Travel is strongly discouraged during the peak of the storm (Saturday afternoon through Sunday morning). If you must travel:
Check Conditions Regularly: Call the Yosemite road office at (209) 372-0200 (press 1, then 1) for the most accurate, minute-by-minute updates.
Pack a Survival Kit: Ensure your vehicle has extra blankets, water, food, a flashlight, and a full tank of gas.
Speed Limit: The maximum speed limit is 25 mph throughout the park during chain control, regardless of what the posted signs say.
Badger Pass: While the ski area benefits from this snow, expect delayed openings or temporary closures today due to high winds and heavy accumulation on the access road.
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