California’s Sierra Nevada mountains are expecting over a foot of new snow this week, prompting the closure of several high mountain passes. | Screenshot: Caltrans
As a powerful storm approaches California’s High Sierra region, Caltrans has announced temporary closures of three major mountain passes: Sonora, Ebbetts, and Monitor, in the interest of safety. The closures take effect this weekend and are expected to last through Thursday.
Sonora Pass (SR-108) will be shut from Kennedy Meadows (eastbound) to the Marine Corps Training Center (westbound) beginning October 13 at 11:00 a.m., reopening October 16 at 12:00 p.m.
Ebbetts Pass (SR-4) will be closed from Lake Alpine (eastbound) to Raymond Meadows (westbound) starting October 13 at 12:00 p.m., reopening October 16 at 12:00 p.m.
Monitor Pass (SR-89) will be closed from the junction of SR-4/89 (eastbound) to US-395 (westbound) beginning October 13 at 1:00 p.m., reopening October 16 at 12:00 p.m.
The closures are tied to incoming storm conditions, which pose heightened risks of snowfall, avalanche danger, and difficult roadway conditions at elevation. Over 2 feet of snow is forecast for parts of Califoria’s High Sierra this week. Caltrans is urging travelers to check road status and forecasts before heading into the mountains, and to use the Caltrans QuickMap app on mobile devices for live updates.
These passes are vital links for recreation, logistics, and regional travel. Anyone planning to travel through the Sierra between Oct. 13-16 should adjust routes or reschedule. Travelers are urged to stay alert, check the weather, and not attempt traversing the passes during closure windows because conditions this time of year can escalate rapidly.