Southern California Snow Report: January 22, 2024

If you are looking for some winter fun in Southern California, you might be in luck. A cold storm system has brought snow and rain to the region, creating some rare and beautiful scenes. Here are some of the highlights and tips for enjoying the snow in SoCal.

Where to find snow

According to the California Snow Report, snowpack levels across the state are currently 62% of normal, with some areas receiving up to 6.66 inches of new snowfall on January 22. The deepest snowpack in California was last observed at Leavitt Lake with a snow depth of 55 inches, about 60% of normal for this time of year.

Some of the best places to find snow in Southern California are:

The mountains of San Bernardino and Riverside counties, where a winter weather advisory is in effect and snow is expected above 4,000 feet. Three to 6 inches of snow are possible in most areas with up to 8 inches in higher elevations ¹.
The I-5 corridor in Ventura and Los Angeles counties, where snowfall is projected to accumulate 2-5 inches and create hazardous driving conditions ².
The West Coast, where above-normal precipitation is favored due to the influence of El Niño ³. Some of the popular ski resorts in the area are Big Bear Mountain Resort, Mountain High Resort, and Snow Valley Mountain Resort.

Snow reports for ski resorts

If you are planning to hit the slopes, here are some of the latest snow reports for the ski resorts in Southern California:

Mammoth Mountain: The Mammoth Mountain snow report for January 22 is a 50-80" base depth with 24 of 25 lifts open. The resort received 3-4" of new snow in the last 24 hours, bringing the storm total to 14-18" of new snow ⁴.
Snow Summit: The Snow Summit snow report for January 22 is a 18-38" base depth with 5 of 10 lifts open. The resort received 2" of new snow in the last 48 hours ⁵.
Big Bear Mountain: The Big Bear Mountain snow report for January 22 is a 20-40" base depth with 6 of 7 lifts open. The resort received 3.9" of new snow on January 22 ⁶.

How to enjoy the snow

Snow in Southern California is a rare and exciting event, but it also comes with some challenges and risks. Here are some tips for enjoying the snow safely and responsibly:

Check the weather and road conditions before you head out. You can use the National Weather Service website or app to get the latest forecasts and alerts. You can also use the Caltrans website or app to get the latest traffic and road closure information.
Prepare your vehicle and pack the essentials. Make sure your car has enough gas, antifreeze, windshield wiper fluid, and tire pressure. You may also need to carry tire chains, a shovel, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, and extra blankets and clothing. Don’t forget to bring water, snacks, and a phone charger as well.
Dress warmly and layer up. Wear waterproof and insulated clothing, gloves, hats, and boots. You may also want to wear sunglasses or goggles to protect your eyes from the glare of the snow. Avoid wearing cotton, as it can get wet and cold easily.
Follow the rules and respect the environment. Only go to designated areas for snow play, and avoid trespassing on private property or damaging vegetation. Don’t litter or leave any trace behind. Be mindful of wildlife and other people, and keep a safe distance from them. Don’t drink and drive, and don’t overestimate your abilities or endurance.

Snow in Southern California is a wonderful opportunity to experience nature and have fun with your friends and family. By following these tips, you can make the most of your snow day and create some lasting memories. Happy snowing! ❄️