Sierra Nevada Reports Historical May Snowfall

Sierra Nevada Records Snowiest Day of the Season from Brief but Potent California Storm

A weekend spring storm brought much-needed precipitation to California, but it also left behind a record-breaking snowfall in the Sierra Nevada mountains. On Sunday, the region saw its snowiest day of the season, with some areas receiving up to two feet of snow.

The storm system moved through the state quickly, but not before dumping heavy rain and snow across the region. In the San Francisco Bay Area, up to an inch of rain fell, while the Sierra Nevada saw significant snowfall. The University of California, Berkeley Central Sierra Snow Lab reported that the 26.4 inches of snowfall on Sunday beat the second snowiest day of the season — March 3rd — by 2.6 inches.

The heavy snowfall caused treacherous driving conditions on Saturday, forcing the closure of several highways near Lake Tahoe, including Interstate 80 over the Donner Summit. Flood advisories were also issued for parts of the Bay Area, where temperatures dipped into the low 40s. Wind gusts reaching 40 mph were reported near San Francisco.

Snowfall Totals in the Sierra Nevada (May 4, 2024)

• Mammoth Mountain: 24 inches
• June Mountain: 22 inches
• Heavenly Mountain Resort: 20 inches
• Kirkwood Mountain Resort: 18 inches
• Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows: 16 inches
• Northstar California: 14 inches
• Sugar Bowl Resort: 12 inches
• Donner Ski Ranch: 10 inches

Impact of the Storm

The storm had a significant impact on the region, causing power outages, road closures, and flooding. Several schools were closed on Monday due to the weather conditions.

The storm also brought much-needed precipitation to California, which is facing a severe drought. The snowpack in the Sierra Nevada is a critical source of water for the state, and the recent snowfall will help to replenish reservoirs and rivers.

Drier and warmer conditions are expected throughout the week. However, the storm is a reminder that winter is not over yet in the Sierra Nevada mountains.

Photo: Peter Morning/Mammoth Mountain Ski Area via AP