Madera County, CA

Alerts

Warning Area
County Line

Alerts are listed in order of start time and level of severity. Click on the alert title to read details for each alert.

In effect from Tuesday 04/21 2:00 AM PDT – Wednesday 04/22 5:00 PM PDT

Issued by NWS Hanford CA

What

Heavy snow possible. Total snow accumulations 3 to 5 inches above 7,000 feet, with 12 to 18 inches possible at the highest elevations of the Sierra Nevada. Winds could gust as high as 75 mph along the Sierra crest.

Where

Kaiser to Rodgers Ridge, Kings Canyon NP, Sequoia NP, Upper San Joaquin River, and Yosemite NP outside of the valley.

When

From 2 AM Tuesday to 5 PM PDT Wednesday.

Impacts

Travel could be very difficult to impossible. The hazardous conditions could impact the Tuesday morning and evening commutes. Strong winds could cause tree damage.

What to do

If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.


Areas impacted

  • Yosemite NP outside of the valley
  • Upper San Joaquin River
  • Kaiser to Rodgers Ridge
  • Kings Canyon NP
  • Sequoia NP

Tips to stay safe

A Winter Storm Warning means that a dangerous winter storm is expected, making travel difficult or impossible. Take immediate action to prepare your home, vehicle and family. 

  • Avoid travel if possible. If you must travel, check road conditions and closures before you leave, and make sure you have an emergency kit in your car.  Make sure you have a full tank of gas and/or a fully charged battery. 
  • Stock emergency supplies in your home before the storm hits. Include food, water, essential medications, flashlights and batteries.
  • Make sure that pets and other animals have plenty of food and water, and access to a warm shelter.
  • If using heat from a fireplace or wood stove, make sure it is properly ventilated. Never use a gas range or oven to heat your home. If using a generator, it should be placed outdoors, at a distance from the home. 
  • If stuck in your vehicle, stay there and contact the authorities for help. Run the motor about 10 minutes per hour for heat, but open the windows just a little for fresh air. 

From the forecaster

Changing Weather Pattern Starting Tonight

Created by the NWS Hanford WFO

(Update @ 8:45 AM): Dry and warm conditions will transition to unsettled conditions tonight. Periods of heavy rain and lightning are expected alongside Sierra Nevada snow through Wednesday. A Winter Storm Warning for the Sierra Nevada mountains is in effect through 5PM Wednesday.

Seven-day weather risk overview

Daily weather risk summary

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Weather forecasting office

Hanford Forecast Office

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