Winter storm warning for Eastern San Gabriel Mountains and Northern Ventura County Mountains from Monday to Thursday
Eastern San Gabriel Mountains and Northern Ventura County Mountains are the focus of an updated winter storm warning released at 9:07 a.m. on Sunday by the National Weather Service. The warning is valid from Monday 6 a.m. until Thursday Feb. 19, at 9 a.m.
“Heavy snow possible. Total snow accumulations of up to 4 inches between 3500 and 4500 feet, 6 to 12 inches for 4500 to 6000 feet, and 1 to 2 feet above 6000 feet. Wind gusts of up to 70 mph through Monday afternoon, and as high as 50 mph through Thursday morning,” according to the NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA. “There will be a break in the snowfall for Tuesday into Tuesday night, before heavy snow returns by Wednesday. However, blowing and drifting snow producing significant visibility restrictions will continue above 6000 feet elevation, even during the break in snowfall.”
“Roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous. Travel could become treacherous. Visibilities may drop below one-quarter mile due to falling and blowing snow. Damaging winds could blow down trees and power lines,” the NWS said. “Monitor the latest forecasts for updates on this situation. If travel is absolutely necessary, drive with extreme caution and be prepared for sudden changes in visibility. Leave plenty of room between you and the motorist ahead of you, and allow extra time to reach your destination. Avoid sudden braking or acceleration, and be especially cautious on hills or when making turns. Make sure your car is winterized and in good working order. Damaging winds could blow down trees and power lines. Travel could be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.”
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:
Winter weather wisdom: Driving tips from the NWS for challenging conditions
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 driving tips from the NWS:
Share your travel plans:
When venturing out of town in hazardous winter weather, be sure to inform family or friends of your destination, your intended route, and your estimated arrival time.
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, remain composed. Inform someone about your situation and location. Avoid attempting to walk to safety. Indicate that you need assistance by attaching a cloth to your car’s antenna or mirror, and make your vehicle more visible by using the dome light and flashers
Be mindful of snow plows:
Keep an eye out for snow plows and provide them with 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, verify the current 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