Major Storm Hitting North America’s Pacific Coast

A major storm coming from the Pacific is bringing heavy snowfall but also violent winds to bring blizzard conditions to many ski resorts from California up to BC in Canada.

The fresh snowfall is welcome but the current conditions are inevitably bringing travel disruption and ski area closures whilst the storm passes through.

In California, Palisades reported it has accumulated 26" (65cm) of new snow from this storm, which will continue today with more heavy snowfall and high winds into the evening. They expect to see an additional 10-15 inches (25-37cm) of snow near the base, and 15-21 inches (37-52cm) inches up top for a cumulative total of nearly four feet (1.2m).

Another Californian ski area, Northstar, reported that,

“The flakes started flying Thursday, and they haven’t let up since. Today’s forecast is calling for heavy snowfall all day long. If you're joining us out here, remember to ski/ride with a buddy, keep an eye on operational alerts.”

Further north its dumping right up the Pacific Coast into BC, Canada too. Whistler Blackcomb reported 25-35cm of fresh snow yesterday on top of 13cm on Friday night. With another 10-15cm overnight Saturday, 36-hour storm totals are expected to reach 60cm (2 feet) plus. Very strong winds have been impacting here too.

“There will be delays opening the alpine on Sunday due to wind impact. Patrol is committed to opening terrain as quickly and safely as possible,” a resort spokesperson advised.

A landslide on Highway 99 has led to ongoing road delays and the resort currently advises against travel to it from the lower mainline.