2026-02-18T22:00:00-08:00
* WHAT...Heavy snow with total snow accumulations 3 to 5 feet above 6,000 feet with 5 to 7 feet over the highest elevations and 1 to 2 feet down to 4,000 feet. Winds could gust as high as 60 mph. * WHERE...A portion of central California. * WHEN...From 10 PM this evening to 10 PM PST Wednesday. * IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult to impossible. The hazardous conditions could impact the Monday morning and evening commutes. Strong winds could cause tree damage. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...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.
Summary
Snow conditions are powder-packed across most trails with a soft, rideable surface and excellent grip—ideal for skiers and snowboarders looking for a high-energy day on the slopes.
With temperatures holding just below freezing at 26.7°F, the snow is staying light and carvable. The 72-hour forecast calls for an additional 14.41 inches of snowfall, with a storm system expected to bring up to 29 inches in the next five days. That means conditions are only going to get better. Though the current snowpack is at 85% of the seasonal average, it's more than enough for a full day of excitement. If you're debating a trip to the mountain, this is a great day to go—fresh snow, solid base, and more on the way.
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mph
Wind
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Humidity
15-Day Snow Forecast
Snowfall Accumulations
5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail
Seasonal Comparison
Year over year snow water equivalent
Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) shows how much water the snow holds. This is ideal for year-to-year tracking of real snowfall and water resources. Measurements from Cottonwood Lakes.
Regional Snowpack Depth
Snow levels measured from Cottonwood Lakes
Snowpack depth measures how much snow has accumulated in the area. This is a key indicator of powder quality, trail coverage, and how epic your runs are going to be this season at Alta Sierra At Shirley Meadows.
Historical Air Temperature
Temperature fluctuations at Alta Sierra At Shirley Meadows
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Alta Sierra At Shirley Meadows impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
About the Area
The Alta Sierra at Shirley Meadows ski resort in California is located in the southern Sierra Nevada mountain range. The resort is surrounded by several prominent peaks and mountain ranges, including:
1. Greenhorn Mountains: The Greenhorn Mountains are located to the east of Alta Sierra at Shirley Meadows and provide a stunning backdrop to the resort.
2. Breckenridge Mountain: Breckenridge Mountain is located to the northwest of the resort and offers challenging terrain for advanced skiers and snowboarders.
3. Alta Peak: Alta Peak is a prominent peak in the Sierra Nevada range located to the north of the resort. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
4. Shirley Peak: Shirley Peak is a peak located near the resort which offers skiers and snowboarders a variety of runs and terrain to explore.
Overall, Alta Sierra at Shirley Meadows ski resort is surrounded by a diverse range of mountains and peaks, providing a stunning backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.
The resort is known for its affordable prices and lack of crowds, making it a great destination for a quieter ski experience. A little-known fact is that Shirley Meadows was once a prominent mining town during the California Gold Rush in the mid-19th century. For beginner skiers, the Bunny Hill is recommended for its gentle slope and easy terrain. The best apres ski bar is the Alta Sierra Pizza and Pub, which offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious food and drinks.
Night Skiing | No |
Lift Count | 3 Lifts |
Hourly Lift Capacity | 2400 per hour |
Base Elevation | 2042 Meters |
Terrain Park | No |
Acreage | 80 Acres |
Established | 1982 |
Run Count | 8 Trails |
Alta Sierra At Shirley Meadows FAQ
Where does our Alta Sierra At Shirley Meadows snow data come from?
This snow report combines on-mountain observations, regional SNOTEL sensors, and weather model data specific to Alta Sierra At Shirley Meadows and the surrounding region.
How much snow did Alta Sierra At Shirley Meadows receive over the past day?
The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.
What's the weather like at Alta Sierra At Shirley Meadows today?
Weather today, mostly sunny, with a high near 36. wind chill values as low as -1. breezy, with a west southwest wind 22 to 28 mph, with gusts as high as 39 mph.
How much new snowfall is forecasted for Alta Sierra At Shirley Meadows this week?
Alta Sierra At Shirley Meadows is expected to receive up to 29.24" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.
What are ski area conditions in California like right now?
Heavy snowfall is on the way for California’s Sierra Nevada, with the most significant snow totals forecasted near key Lake Tahoe and Central Sierra resorts. Squaw Valley (Palisades Tahoe), Kirkwood, and Sugar Bowl are expected to receive 59–69 inches over the next five days, based on readings from nearby sensors like CSS Lab (69"), Ward Creek #3 (59"), and Independence ... Read more
Daedrich Ranch Road, Wofford Heights