With a blizzard warning going into effect in the Sierra Nevada later this week, officials are asking the public to stay off the roads.
The National Weather Service said the incoming storm, which is expected to dump anywhere from 5 to 10 feet of snow above 5,000 feet between Thursday and Sunday, will make mountain travel "extremely dangerous."
"Extremely dangerous to impossible travel conditions with extended road closures likely," the weather service said in a statement. "Widespread blowing snow will create blizzard conditions with white-out conditions and near zero visibility. Very strong winds, combined with heavy snow could cause extensive tree damage and extended power outages."
The blizzard warning for the Sierra will be in effect from 4 a.m. Thursday until 10 a.m. Sunday. The worst blizzard conditions are expected Friday into Saturday morning, according to the weather service.
"Travel should be restricted to emergencies only," the weather service said in a statement. "If you must travel, have a winter survival kit with you. If you get stranded, stay with your vehicle."
PG&E spokesperson Megan McFarland is also warning the public about the upcoming Sierra storm.
"Saturday is when we’re going to see the alot of weather impact, particularly in the Sierra Nevada foothills. That’s where we’ll see a lot of snow, and there will be a potential for power outages," she said.
Despite all the warnings, some Bay Area skiers are heading up to the resorts. In fact, the storm is causing a lot of excitement for some.
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“There’s definitely a buzz. There's excitement in the store from customers and staff,” said Zack Naour with Sports Basement.
Naour described the lure of skiing on a huge pile of freshly fallen snow.
“It’s like no other skiing experience, sure, you know, like untracked terrain,” he said. “Smooth, surfy, you know, it's like meditative, like your best meal you can think of.”
San Francisco resident Sydney Matteson loaded her skis and prepared to head to the Sierra ahead of the storm on Wednesday.
“I’m watching the conditions on 80, looking at the CHP and looking at the updates on Twitter and online to make sure no road closures are going to happen,” she said.
But for San Francisco residents Trevor Hansen, the thoughts of a perilous drive overcame his love of skiin for at least this weekend.
“I didn’t wanna drive in it. Didn’t wanna go up - even Sunday I thought the roads might be too icy so decided against it. Hoping for next weekend instead,” he said.
