2026-01-01T12:00:00-08:00
Freezing rain this evening into the morning of New Year's Day will be light and isolated, but could create slick, icy roadways for holiday travel across colder valleys of northeast California and the eastern Sierra. ...WINTER STORM WATCH IN EFFECT FROM FRIDAY AFTERNOON THROUGH SUNDAY MORNING... * WHAT...For the Winter Weather Advisory...Freezing rain. Ice accumulations up to a tenth of an inch in the Martis Valley and along Highway 395 in Mono County. For the Winter Storm Watch... Heavy snow. Snow accumulations of 1 to 2 feet above 7000 feet and up to 12 inches below 7000 feet. Sierra crest ridgetops could see gusts as high as 100 mph. * WHERE...Greater Lake Tahoe Area, and Mono County. * WHEN...For the Winter Weather Advisory...from 4 PM this afternoon to noon PST Thursday. For the Winter Storm Watch...from Friday afternoon through Sunday morning. * IMPACTS...Difficult travel conditions are possible. The hazardous conditions could impact holiday travel tonight and Thursday morning. For this weekend, travel could become very difficult at times due to heavy snow. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Light freezing rain tonight through Thursday morning will be isolated and confined to colder valleys, but may create slick, icy roadways in the Martis Valley, including Interstate 80 near Truckee, and along Highway 395 in Mono County. Snow accumulations of 6 to 10 inches possible along the Sierra crest in Mono County through Thursday morning.
Summary
Standing at a staggering elevation of 14,252 feet (4357 meters), it is the third highest peak in California and one of the tallest in the entire United States. This majestic mountain covers a vast area, spanning over 20 square miles (52 square kilometers) of rugged terrain.
During the winter season, White Mountain Peak receives heavy snowfall, creating a substantial snowpack that blankets its slopes. Snow depths can reach impressive levels, often exceeding 20 feet (6 meters) in some areas. This abundant snow accumulation contributes to the mountain's vital role as a water source for nearby creeks and rivers. The melting snowpack feeds into several important waterways, such as the Owens River, providing crucial runoff that supports local ecosystems and communities.
The name "White Mountain" is derived from the mountain's distinct appearance. Its upper slopes are often covered in snow for extended periods, creating a stunning white contrast against the surrounding landscape. Moreover, the peak holds significant historical and cultural value. It is considered sacred by the Paiute people, who inhabited the region long before European settlers arrived. The mountain is said to hold spiritual significance, and it is believed to be a place where the Paiute people communicated with the divine. White Mountain Peak continues to captivate mountaineers and nature enthusiasts alike, offering breathtaking views, challenging climbs, and a glimpse into the rich history and legends of the Intermountain West.