SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY, Calif. (VVNG.com) — A significant weather system is expected to bring wind, rain, and snow beginning Sunday night and continuing through next week, prompting a Winter Storm Watch for the San Bernardino County Mountains.
According to a Winter Storm Watch issued at 11:47 a.m., Saturday by the National Weather Service in San Diego, the watch remains in effect from Monday morning through Thursday morning.
The agency warned that two rounds of heavy snow are possible.
For the first round on Monday, 4 to 9 inches of snow are expected between 6,000 and 7,000 feet, 9 to 14 inches are expected between 7,000 and 8,000 feet, and up to 20 inches are possible above 8,000 feet.
Winds could gust from 60 to 70 mph, with the strongest winds along the desert slopes of the mountains.
There may be breaks in snow showers or lighter snowfall during the day on Tuesday, followed by a second round of heavy snow and gusty winds developing Wednesday into Thursday morning.
Snow levels will begin around 6,500 feet on Monday before falling to near 5,000 feet. Even lower snow levels are possible during the second round on Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service.
Forecasters said roads, especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous. Visibilities may drop below one-quarter mile due to falling and blowing snow, and travel could become very difficult to impossible. Hazardous conditions could impact the Monday morning and evening commutes. Strong winds may also cause tree damage.
Residents are encouraged to prepare now by securing loose outdoor items, charging phones and backup batteries, and restocking emergency kits with enough food and water for at least three days per person.
San Bernardino County officials are also urging residents to pick up sandbags in advance of the expected rain. Sand and sandbags are available on a first-come, first-served basis at County Fire stations. For more information, visit https://sbcfire.org/sandbags.
Motorists traveling to mountain areas should check road conditions in advance, carry chains if required, and slow down on wet or snowy roads.
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