Yosemite is the focus of a winter storm warning issued at 11:47 a.m. on Saturday by the National Weather Service. The warning is valid from Sunday 10 p.m. until Wednesday Feb. 18, at 10 p.m. “Heavy snow with total snow accumulations 3 to 5 feet above 6,000 feet with 5 to 7 feet over the highest el evations and 1 to 2 feet down to 4,000 feet. Winds could gust as high as 60 mph,” can be anticipated according to the NWS Hanford CA. “Snow levels will begin at 5,500 to 6,000 feet on Sunday night and lower to 4,000 feet Tuesday morning. Light snow accumulations down to 3,000 feet Tuesday night into Wednesday.” “Travel could be very difficult to impossible. The hazardous conditions could impact the Monday morning and evening commutes. Strong winds could cause tree damage,” the NWS said. “If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.” The full list of affected locations includes: Yosemite Yosemite Valley Mariposa-Madera Lower Sierra Fresno-Tulare Lower Sierra South End of the Lower Sierra San Joaquin River Canyon Upper San Joaquin River Kaiser to Rodgers Ridge Kings Canyon NP Grant Grove area Sequoia NP South End of the Upper Sierra Piute Walker Basin Emergency alerts in Southern California For “considerable or catastrophic” hazards, emergency alerts will be sent to all enabled mobile phones in the area. To monitor lesser risk, residents are advised to sign up for county alert systems and to monitor agencies’ social media. How to sign up for alerts in your area: LA County Orange County Riverside County San Bernardino County Mastering winter roads: Guidance from the NWS for safe winter travel Winter’s icy grip often turns roads treacherous, leading to over 6,000 weather-related vehicle fatalities and more than 480,000 injuries each year. When you find yourself on snowy or freezing rain-slicked roads, your top priority should be safety. Slow down and exercise caution. In temperatures near freezing, it’s prudent to assume icy patches on the road and adjust your driving accordingly. Be on alert for ice accumulating on power lines and tree branches, as they may break and fall. If possible, avoid driving in these conditions altogether. But if you must venture out, choose routes with fewer trees and power lines, and never touch a downed power line. If you encounter one, dial 911 immediately. Here are additional winter weather driving tips: Share your travel plans: When traveling out of town in hazardous winter weather, inform your family or friends of your destination, planned route, and estimated time of arrival. Prepare your vehicle: Ensure your gas tank is full and equip your vehicle with essential winter supplies, including a windshield scraper, jumper cables, a small shovel, flashlight, cell phone, blanket, extra warm clothing, drinking water, and high-calorie non-perishable food. Stay calm when stranded: If you become stranded, stay composed. Notify someone about your situation and location. Avoid attempting to walk to safety. Attach a cloth to your car’s antenna or mirror to signal that you require assistance. Make your vehicle more visible by using the dome light and flashers. Be aware of snow plows: Keep an eye out for snow plows and allow them ample room to pass. Only overtake a plow when you have a clear view of the road ahead. Check road conditions: Before embarking on your journey, check the latest road conditions to make informed travel decisions. Stay safe on wintry roads with these valuable winter driving tips from the NWS, and reduce the risk of accidents during challenging weather conditions. For more local weather alerts, visit our Weather Advisory page ...read more read less