December 15, 2016 - The National Weather Service issued a winter storm warning and flash flood watch for today, Thursday through Friday, December 15, 2016 for the Yosemite region.
Flooding will occur on the Merced River in Yosemite Valley.
Two to four inches of rain are forecasted today through Friday, with some areas receiving as much as six inches. Heavy snow is predicted for the Sierra Mountains with as much as six feet along the crest.
Rainfall during this storm will raise water levels in the Merced River over 14’, several feet above flood stage at the Pohono River Gauge.
Yosemite will implement road closures throughout Yosemite Valley, into and out of, beginning at 5:00 PM today, Thursday, December 15, 2016, and they will last overnight. Visitors who are leaving the park today are urged to leave by 4:00 p.m. at the latest.
The scheduled roads closures are as follows:
- HWY 140 from El Portal to Yosemite Valley will be closed at Park Line in El Portal.
- Wawona Road (HWY 41 North) from Wawona to Yosemite Valley will be closed at Chinquapin (access to Yosemite West provided)
- Northside drive exiting Yosemite Valley will be closed at Yosemite Valley Lodge for outbound traffic
- Big Oak Flat Road/HWY 120 will be closed at the HWY 140/120 junction, no entrance to Yosemite Valley from highway 120
When traveling, be watchful of other hazards that could include mud and debris flow, falling trees, and rock fall. Fire burn scar areas may see elevated threat of debris flows during heavy rain as well.
The forecasted storm is serious and in order to help protect life and property, the park has initiated Park Directive 22: Flood Emergency Response and Evacuation Plan. An incident command team has been assembled to manage any evacuations, closures, and responses to flooding.
For 24 hour road and weather information, please call (209)372-0200.
Source: NPS
