Winter Storm Warning Issued For Inland Empire Mountain Communities

INLAND EMPIRE, CA — A cold and intense low-pressure system moving down the West Coast is expected to bring rain Wednesday and Thursday to the Inland Empire — and more snow to the region's mountain communities.

According to the National Weather Service, a winter storm warning was issued for local mountain areas beginning at 10 a.m. Wednesday through 4 p.m. Thursday.

The snow level will fall to 3,500 to 4,000 feet Wednesday night, then rise to 4,000 to 4,500 feet
Thursday, according to the agency.

"The most significant snowfall is expected above 5,000 feet," the NWS reported. "Snowfall of 6 to 10 inches is possible in the mountains above 5,000 feet with locally 12 to 18 inches on higher peaks above 7,500 feet. A few inches of snowfall is possible at elevations down to around 4,000 to 4,500 feet."

There will be periods of strong, gusty southwest to west winds in the mountains and deserts, with much of the blustery conditions hitting Wednesday afternoon and evening, according to the NWS.

High temperatures on Wednesday and Thursday will be much cooler. Thursday is expected to be the chilliest day, with high temperatures in the mountains 20 to 25 degrees below average, the NWS reported.

If you are planning to travel, check road conditions here.