Winter Storm Warning issued for Southern California mountains

LOS ANGELES – A winter storm is expected to bring heavy snow, high winds, and hazardous conditions to the mountains of Southern California starting Saturday afternoon. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Winter Storm Warning for the Eastern San Gabriel Mountains and Winter Weather Advisories for several other mountain regions, including the Western San Gabriel Mountains, the Interstate 5 Corridor, and Ventura and Santa Barbara county mountains.

Eastern San Gabriel Mountains

The Winter Storm Warning will be in effect from 4 p.m. Saturday through 4 p.m. Monday, with heavy snow accumulations of up to 14 inches expected at elevations above 4,000 feet. Winds could gust as high as 45 mph, potentially causing tree and power line damage.

Travel in the area is expected to be extremely difficult, especially during the Monday morning commute.

Western San Gabriel Mountains and Highway 14 Corridor

A Winter Weather Advisory is in place for the same time frame, with snow accumulations of up to 8 inches and wind gusts reaching 45 mph. Snow levels will also drop to around 4,000 feet, creating challenging travel conditions.

Interstate 5 Corridor and Surrounding Mountains

The advisory extends to the Interstate 5 Corridor and mountains in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties, where snow accumulations of up to 8 inches are forecast. Light snow may also fall on the Grapevine near Gorman. Wind gusts up to 35 mph are anticipated.

Impacts and Safety Recommendations

The NWS warns that travel could become hazardous or even impossible in some areas, with potential disruptions to the Monday morning commute. Motorists are advised to carry emergency supplies, including a flashlight, food, and water, and to monitor road conditions by calling 511.

Residents and travelers are urged to use caution, slow down on icy roads, and stay informed by visiting weather.gov/LosAngeles.