A powerful blizzard that swept through the Sierra Nevada mountains in Northern California has left highways and ski resorts closed, with more snow expected to follow. The storm, which dumped over 7 feet of snow in the region over the weekend, caused sections of Interstate 80 to be shut down and left thousands of homes and businesses without power.
Despite blizzard warnings expiring, the National Weather Service still predicts scattered thunderstorms and up to 2 feet of additional snow at higher elevations. Travel through the mountains is highly discouraged due to hazardous conditions.
Ski resorts like Palisades Tahoe were forced to close chairlifts for two days in a row, with snow totaling 6 feet and more on the way. Residents in towns like Truckee are struggling to keep up with the heavy snowfall, with one resident’s snow blower breaking from the accumulation.
The storm, described as an “extreme blizzard” by meteorologists, caused Mammoth Mountain Ski Area to close due to high winds. A second storm is forecasted to bring more rain and snow in the coming days.
As Californians continue to deal with the aftermath of the storm, authorities are working to reopen highways and restore power to affected areas. Despite the challenges, locals like Rudy Islas remain unfazed by the snow, noting that they are accustomed to it and prepared for such weather events.