California’s Wrightwood and Big Bear Lake Could See 2 to 3 Feet of Snow as Powerful Mid-February Storm Pattern Intensifies
CALIFORNIA — A powerful winter storm pattern expected to intensify during the week of February 16 could deliver significant snowfall to Southern California’s mountain communities, with projections showing two to three feet of snow at resort elevations in Wrightwood and Big Bear Lake.
Meteorologists monitoring what has been described as an active “Raiden Storm Pattern” indicate that the strongest systems are likely to arrive early next week. Forecast guidance suggests that resort-level areas could receive between 24 and 36 inches of snow, creating potentially hazardous travel conditions in higher elevations.
Major Snowfall Expected at Resort Elevations
Wrightwood and Big Bear Lake are currently positioned to see the heaviest accumulations during the peak of the system. Snowfall totals of 2 to 3 feet are expected at higher elevations, particularly in ski resort zones.
Such totals would significantly impact mountain travel, outdoor recreation, and daily routines for residents in these communities. Snow removal operations and winter storm preparations are expected to ramp up ahead of the system’s arrival.
Lower Elevations See Lighter Totals
While mountain communities brace for heavy snowfall, lower elevations are expected to receive considerably less accumulation. Tehachapi, for example, is projected to receive approximately 4 to 6 inches of snow during the same timeframe.
The difference in totals reflects elevation-driven snowfall dynamics, where colder air at higher altitudes allows for more efficient snow production.
Winter Storm Watch Likely Later This Week
Forecasters have indicated that an official Winter Storm Watch may be issued later this week as confidence increases in the system’s track and intensity. While the overall storm pattern remains on track compared to earlier projections, officials caution that snowfall totals can still fluctuate as models are refined.
The upcoming system is part of a broader active pattern expected to produce multiple storm systems during mid-February. Meteorologists emphasize that this is a developing situation and that residents should monitor updated forecasts as the event approaches. Heavy mountain snowfall could lead to chain requirements, road closures, and temporary disruptions across affected areas.
Residents and travelers planning to visit Wrightwood, Big Bear Lake, or other mountain destinations next week are encouraged to stay informed and prepare for rapidly changing winter conditions.
Have winter storms already begun impacting your plans? Share your thoughts and stay up to date with continued coverage at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
