Community Corner

Winter Storm Watch for Mountains on Both Sides of San Gorgonio Pass

An approaching storm system could bring significant snowfall to the San Gorgonio high country and San Jacinto Mountains starting Wednesday through Thursday morning.

Another cold storm approaching the San Gorgonio Pass could bring 8 inches of snow or more to elevations above 3,000 feet beginning Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service.

Tuesday night lows for Beaumont to Cabazon were expected to range in the mid-30s. Wednesday night lows are expected slightly warmer, in the high 30s, as rain and snow move through the Pass.

A winter storm watch was issued for the mountains on both sides of the Pass from Wednesday afternoon to Thursday morning.

Find out what's happening in Banning-Beaumontwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"A cold upper level trough will drop down through Southern California on Wednesday," the Weather Service advised. "Majority of snow showers will begin by late Wednesday morning for the San Bernardino and Riverside County mountains . . . "

Communities that can expect wintry conditions include Oak Glen, Pine Cove, Idyllwild, Aguanga and Anza, according to the Weather Service.

Find out what's happening in Banning-Beaumontwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Snow levels could drop to 2,500 feet by Wednesday evening.

West to southwest winds of 15 miles per hour to 25 mph and gusting to 45 mph are possible through Wednesday evening, with a shift overnight as winds become north to northeast, increase to 20 mph to 30 mph, with gusts to 70 mph possible by Thursday morning, according to Weather Service.

Visibilities in some areas could be reduced due to snow, blowing and fog.

"A winter storm watch means there is a potential for significant snow . . . sleet . . .or ice accumulations that may impact travel," the Weather Service advised.

Motorists heading into the mountains were advised to take chains, extra food and extra clothing.


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