La Nina + Snowcial

Just a quick note to Snowcialites to be prepared to bring either your powder skis, or your SCUBA gear (or BOTH) for Snowcial this year.

This just in from the Western Weather Group:

A broad area of low pressure dropping southward from the Gulf of Alaska and a strong WSW’erly jet stream across the Eastern Pacific will spawn a series of potent storm systems which will bring periods of heavy rain,strong winds, and copious amounts of high mountain snow to Northern & Central California beginning Friday and lasting through the middle of next week. Although not quite a “Pineapple Express” (the jet stream will be a little too far north), it will be close to it and these systems will tap into subtropical moisture just north of Hawaii. These storms will be fairly mild with snow levels most likely averaging close to 6500ft near Lake Tahoe. Lower elevation rainfall totals should average between 2-7 inches Friday through Wednesday, with 5-12 inches of rain in the mountains below 6000ft. Snowfall totals above 7000ft should range between 6-12ft. Most models indicate a break in the pattern by Christmas while some keep it wet through the end of the year. Remember, La Niña is supposed to be wet through the early part of winter over NorCal, then we should “dry out” & see below normal precipitation with cooler than normal temperatures for the late winter & spring.

Heavenly was reporting good results from the current weather patterns today as well:

Good Morning, Skiers and Riders! We received a fresh 12”-16” of snow last night and there is more on the way! Be sure to get up early to find freshest tracks. Having the highest elevation of any Lake Tahoe resort with a summit over 10,000 ft, the higher on the mountain you go today the better the snow will be. It’s going to be a cold one, so be sure to layer up and to cover your exposed skin while skiing and riding on the mountain! Snow safety and winds may impact lift operations so call 1.800.HEAVENLY or check back for updates. Lifts are open at 9AM!

So be prepared. And be stoked! (you do still have to go to the conference…)

-Mike