Weather & Atmospheric Forecaster Dennis Mattinson indicates that gusty winds are expected across the region today, October 19th, reaching up to the 30 mph range. This will be followed by a period of precipitation anticipated on Wednesday and Thursday as a trough pivots through the area. Higher elevations, particularly in Mono County, face a 70% chance of receiving approximately 4.0 inches of snow during this midweek weather event, with colder temperatures settling in as the week progresses.
The initial impact of this changing weather pattern will be observed today, October 19th, as a deepening Pacific trough encourages these gusty winds. These winds are anticipated to reach speeds in the 30 mph range across the region, affecting various communities in Inyo and Mono Counties, as well as the Owens Valley and Mammoth Lakes areas. Dennis Mattinson, Weather & Atmospheric Forecaster, highlights this initial phase of the developing weather system, advising residents and visitors to prepare for these conditions.
Following today's windy conditions, a significant shift is projected for the midweek period. Forecaster Mattinson explains that a trough will pivot through the region, leading to the arrival of precipitation during the Wednesday and Thursday timeframe. This shift marks a notable change from the earlier conditions and is expected to bring widespread moisture to the area.
A key aspect of this midweek weather system is the potential for snowfall, especially in higher elevations. According to Mattinson, there is currently a 70% chance of approximately 4.0 inches of snow accumulating in these elevated areas. This snowfall is particularly anticipated in Mono County, indicating that mountain communities and visitors in those areas should be prepared for winter conditions. The precise timing and intensity of this snowfall will be determined as the trough moves closer to the region.
Accompanying the gusty winds, precipitation, and potential snow, residents throughout the Owens Valley and Eastern Sierra should prepare for a noticeable drop in temperatures. Mattinson advises that chilly temperatures are expected to settle across the area as the week progresses, impacting daily routines and outdoor activities. This general cooling trend will affect all communities, from the valley floor to the higher mountain passes.
Detailed temperature forecasts for various locations underscore the broad range of conditions expected across the Eastern Sierra. In the Owens Valley, Bishop is forecast for a high of 77 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of 40 degrees. Nearby Big Pine will see a high of 77 degrees and a low of 44 degrees. Independence is expected to reach 77 degrees for its high and 48 degrees for its low. Moving further south, Lone Pine is predicted to have a high of 76 degrees and a low of 50 degrees, while Olancha is forecast to experience a high of 79 degrees and a low of 52 degrees, marking the warmest high in the immediate Inyo County area.
In stark contrast, Mammoth Lakes in the higher elevations will experience significantly cooler weather, with a high of 56 degrees and a low of 33 degrees, just above freezing. Far to the east, Death Valley is expected to remain considerably warmer, with a high of 95 degrees and a low of 71 degrees. These specific temperature ranges provide a comprehensive picture of the varied microclimates and the impact of the incoming weather system across the region, as outlined by Dennis Mattinson.
