Whitney Portal Winter Storm: Up to 2 Feet of Snow and 50 MPH Winds Create Extreme Danger for Hikers

BISHOP, Calif. — A powerful winter storm continues to slam California’s Eastern Sierra, dumping heavy snow and generating wind gusts up to 50 mph across elevations from 7,000 to 9,000 feet, including the Whitney Portal area, according to the National Weather Service in Las Vegas.

Heavy Snow and High Winds Pound the Eastern Sierra

The Winter Storm Warning remains in effect through 5 a.m. Wednesday, with forecasters predicting 8 to 16 inches of snow at mid-elevations and as much as 2 feet above 9,000 feet.
Gusty winds are reducing visibility and causing blowing snow and dangerous travel conditions on Highway 168 west of Bishop, where slick roads and icy bridges are already creating hazardous driving.

Officials Warn of “Extreme Danger” for Hikers and Campers

The National Weather Service cautions that conditions at Whitney Portal — the gateway to Mount Whitney, the tallest peak in the continental U.S. — could deteriorate rapidly.
Authorities urge hikers and campers to avoid the area unless fully equipped for sudden winter conditions.

“Those traveling or recreating in the high Sierra should delay plans or make sure they have proper gear and emergency supplies,” officials said.

Rescue agencies in Inyo County are on standby, warning that even experienced hikers could face whiteout conditions, falling temperatures, and limited access to help.

Travel Could Become “Difficult to Impossible” Overnight

The NWS said travel on mountain passes could become nearly impossible overnight as snow continues to fall and strong winds persist. Motorists are urged to carry tire chains, avoid nonessential travel, and check Caltrans road reports before heading into elevated terrain.

Forecasters also noted that the system’s cold, moist air mass may trigger additional snow squalls into Wednesday morning before drier conditions return later in the day.

Safety First: Prepare or Postpone Travel Plans

Officials are urging outdoor enthusiasts to postpone any high-elevation travel until conditions stabilize.
“Temperatures can drop sharply, and visibility can disappear within minutes,” weather forecasters said. “Anyone caught unprepared could face life-threatening exposure.”

The storm marks one of the earliest major snow events of the 2025–2026 season, signaling the start of winter hazards across the Sierra Nevada region.

For more weather updates and safety alerts, visit SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.