Winter Storm Warning
2026-02-18T22:00:00-08:00

* WHAT...Heavy snow Expected. Accumulation amounts range from up to 1 foot around 2000 to 2500 feet, 1 to 2 feet at 2500 to 3500 feet and 4 to 8 feet at higher elevations. Wind gusts of 45 to 55mph expected. * WHERE...West Slope Northern Sierra Nevada and Western Plumas County/Lassen Park including Interstate 80 and Highway 50, northern Shasta County including portions of Interstate 5, the Coastal Range, and foothill regions of the Sierra Nevada. * WHEN...From 10 PM Sunday to 10 PM PST Wednesday. * IMPACTS...Dangerous to near impossible travel conditions with chain controls and road closures. Low visibility due to a combination of wind and heavy snow. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Snow levels will be around 4500-5500 feet Sunday night through Monday. 2500 to 3500 feet snow levels by Monday night and 1500 to 2500 feet Tuesday into Wednesday. Potential to see snow levels as low as 1000 feet for areas along the Coastal Range, around Shasta County, and in the southern Cascades.


Squaw Valley Ski Report

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Last Updated: February 15, 2026

Today’s Squaw Valley snow report: Squaw Valley received 0 inches of new snow overnight, holding the snowpack at 41 inches, which is about 35% below average for this time of year.



Summary

Surface conditions are currently firm and groomed, with a thin coverage in some areas—expect icy patches, especially on exposed runs and steeps like KT-22.

Despite the quiet skies today, a major winter storm is on the horizon. The mountain is forecast to receive nearly 56 inches of snow over the next 72 hours, with totals climbing to 61 inches by day five. While today might not offer deep powder turns, it's the calm before a potentially epic powder weekend. If you're up for cruising groomers and prepping for a storm chase, today is still worth skiing—just keep an eye on avalanche reports as conditions evolve.



0"

Past 24 Hours

41.0"

Snowpack

°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity


15-Day Snow Forecast


Snowfall Accumulations

Snowpack Percent Normal

58%

Max Recorded Snowpack

269"

Snowfall Past 24 Hours

0.0"

Snowfall Past 48 Hours

1"

Snowfall Past 72 Hours

7"

Snowfall Next 24 Hours

0"

Snowfall Next 72 Hours

56"

Snowfall Next 5 Days

62"

Terrain Surface

NA

Powder Score

NA
       

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 Squaw Valley G.C..

Regional Snowpack Depth

Snow levels measured from Squaw Valley G.C.


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 Squaw Valley.

Historical Air Temperature

Temperature fluctuations at Squaw Valley


Recent air temperature fluctuations at Squaw Valley impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.

About the Area


Squaw Valley ski resort in California is situated in the Sierra Nevada mountain range. The resort is surrounded by several prominent peaks and mountain features, including:

1. Squaw Peak: The resort's namesake peak, Squaw Peak, is a prominent mountain in the Sierra Nevada range. It offers stunning views of the surrounding area and is a popular destination for hikers and skiers.

2. KT-22: Known for its steep terrain and challenging runs, KT-22 is a famous peak at Squaw Valley. It is a favorite among advanced skiers and snowboarders for its challenging terrain and deep powder.

3. Granite Chief Wilderness: Located adjacent to Squaw Valley, the Granite Chief Wilderness is a protected area of the Sierra Nevada range known for its rugged terrain, alpine lakes, and diverse wildlife. It offers endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, skiing, and backpacking.

4. Palisades: The Palisades are a series of steep cliffs and chutes at Squaw Valley known for their challenging terrain and breathtaking views. This area offers some of the most challenging skiing and snowboarding in the resort.

5. Emigrant Peak: Another prominent peak near Squaw Valley, Emigrant Peak offers stunning views of the surrounding area and is a popular destination for backcountry skiing and snowboarding.

Overall, Squaw Valley ski resort is surrounded by stunning mountain ranges and features that offer endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and exploration.

The resort's longest trail, Mountain Run, spans 3.2 miles and boasts stunning views of Lake Tahoe. As a fun fact, Squaw Valley hosted the 1960 Winter Olympics, which was the first time the Olympics were held in the United States. For beginners, the resort offers a variety of gentle, beginner-friendly runs such as First Venture and Red Dog Ridge. For après ski, the Auld Dubliner Irish Pub offers a cozy atmosphere, live music, and a selection of craft beers and hearty pub fare.

Night Skiing

Yes

Lift Count

34 Lifts

Hourly Lift Capacity

49000 per hour

Base Elevation

1890 Meters

Terrain Park

Yes

Acreage

4000 Acres

Established

1949

Run Count

170 Trails

Squaw Valley FAQ


Where does our Squaw Valley snow data come from?

This snow report combines on-mountain observations, regional SNOTEL sensors, and weather model data specific to Squaw Valley and the surrounding region.


How much snow did Squaw Valley receive over the past day?

The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.


What's the weather like at Squaw Valley today?

Weather today, a 30 percent chance of snow after 4pm. mostly sunny, with a high near 38. south southwest wind 8 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 29 mph. new snow accumulation of less than one inch possible.


How much new snowfall is forecasted for Squaw Valley this week?

Squaw Valley is expected to receive up to 61.87" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.


What are some ski resorts near Squaw Valley?

Alpine Meadows Ski Area
Granlibakken Ski Resort
Sugar Bowl Resort
Northstar


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