The Meteorological Prediction Center predicts important alterations in daily life in the highest areas of the Sierra Nevada during the weekend
As the weekend approaches in California, several ski resorts have decided to close their doors in anticipation of a massive snow storm expected to hit the Sierra Nevada region.
According to the forecasts published by the bbcCalifornia and the Sierra Nevada are bracing for up to 10 feet of snow and 140 mph wind gusts in the mountains.
The highest elevations of the mountainous region are forecast to experience the most extreme weather, including heavy snowfall and fierce winds.
The storm began to reach the region on Thursday. Snow was expected to fall between three and five inches (7.6 cm to 12.7 cm) per hour on Friday and Saturday.
The Weather Prediction Center has forecast major disruptions to daily life in the higher areas of the Sierra Nevada from Friday to Saturday, with travel conditions ranging from extremely dangerous to impossible, and also possible avalanches.
As a result, authorities closed I-80, Yosemite National Park and more than a dozen ski resorts around Lake Tahoe due to a snowstorm.
California officials have reported car collisions and vehicle accidents, but have received no reports of serious injuries.
The storm comes after a slow start to the snow season, which normally supplies California's water supply.
Conditions are expected to improve on Monday, but the area could see even more snow next week.
