6:20pm Update: Snowfall rates have increased in the Town of Mammoth with about 4 inches of new on the ground. We are expecting between 1 and 2 feet between the Town of Mammoth and the Mammoth Crest by Morning.

Winds:
The prime time for high winds will be after 9:00-11:00 PM as precipitation rates in Mono County diminish and simulated soundings show inversions lowering to near mountain top level. This creates a better opportunity for downsloping. Weather Balloon Soundings indicate 70+ KTs below the inversion, so local gusts in wind-prone areas along Highway 395 (South of Coleville) could reach 80 mph.

From 10:00AM Sunday; The Village at Mammoth has picked up about 16 inches of snow since 10:00AM Saturday….Snowfall amounts blew through the forecasts of less than a foot. Mammoth Mt picked up between 16 and 24 inches during the same time period.

Next weather system is associated with the dreaded NW jet. However, there is enough westerly bias to bring us a period of heavy snow over a 12 hour period to warrant Winter Storm Warnings for this afternoon through the night.

Not only will this storm bring a period of heavy snow, but more importantly very strong and life threating winds that will cause blizzard conditions late today and tonight along with zero visibility. Although some roads will likley close in exposed areas later today and tonight….do not plan on any travel without, warm clothing, warm blankets, water and food. Remember in zero visibility, you can become disorientated very quickly. If stranded in blizzard conditions…stay in your vehicle, do not wander out…