Central Sierra Weather Information

Sonora Pass Area

Bond and Dorthy Pass Area

Bensen Lake Area

Tuolumne Meadows

Donahue Pass

Red's Meadow

The Sierra Crest is noted for having the capacity to produce four seasons of weather during a single Summer Day. Rain, snow, hail, fog, lightening, and a bit of sunshine can all happen in quick sequence.

This is especially true in the Central Sierra, where the elevations increase from those of the Northern Sierra Nevada.

The High Sierra is noted for rapid changes in weather and temperature, and the sudden appearance of harsh weather trends. You may experience anything from intense heat to bitterly cold Summer snow storms. Or you may not. In any case, weather must be considered and preparations made to deal with these weather facts BEFORE entering the High Sierras.

Long Distance Backpackers who were on the High Sierra Crest in early August of 2009 experienced just such a series of Summer Snow Storms.

Temperatures dropped to the high teens and low twenties, snow and hail fell which partially obscured the trails, and all of those who entertained the misconception that the Sierras only have fine weather during the Summertime were bitterly disappointed. Luckily for the many backcountry travelers who were not properly prepared, those storms blew apart, rather than consolidated and deepened.

Weather considerations should guide your gear selection.

Weather Preparations for Backcountry Travel

All Seasons

The Northern Sierra General Information

Satellites

NWS Western US

NWS Water Vapor Western US 28 KM

GOES Pacific

GOES NE Pacific Watar Vapor

Radar

The NWS Radar out of the San Joaquin Valley covers the Souther half of the Sierra.

The NWS Radar out of Reno covers the Northern Sierra from Lake Tahoe down to Mammoth Lakes.

The NWS Pacific Southwest Radar covers all California, and can be clicked for local detail.

Forecasts

NWS Western Slope N Sierra to Yosemite

NWS Yosemite to Kings Canyon

Real-Time Ground Reporting Stations

Meso-West North California Map

Meso-West South California Map

For more detailed information see the area links above.

Additional Winter Information

REGIONAL SNOW ANALYSES: Western Coastal.

NWS Winter Weather Forecasts

National Snow and Ice Data Center

Other North Sierra Reporting Stations

Feds: Natural Resources and Conservation Service. All California Snotel Stations

State: California Department of Water Resources. All Snotel Stations: CDWR Home Page, select “Stations” tab.

Backpacker Forums

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Forum: Sierra Weather / Area: Central Sierra Weather