Winter Storm Brings Much-Needed Snow to Sierra

Fresh powder falls across mountain passes and ski resorts, offering a boost to an underperforming snow season.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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A February winter storm is moving through the Sierra, bringing steady rain and snow to the region and creating slick, hazardous conditions along major roadways, including Interstate 80. After a dry and disappointing January, the storm system is delivering much-needed snowfall to higher elevations, with mountain passes and Sierra resorts expected to receive between 6 and 18 inches of fresh powder.

Why it matters

The snowfall comes at a critical time, as the state's most recent snow survey on January 30 measured the statewide snowpack at just 47 percent of normal for this time of year. The storm is a reminder that winter driving conditions can return quickly, even after dry stretches, and could mark the beginning of a significant shift in the Sierra's winter season.

The details

Travelers from across the region welcomed the change, with visitors from Hong Kong and Sacramento expressing their delight at the fresh powder. Caltrans officials warn drivers to be prepared for the winter conditions, as additional storms are possible next week.

  • The storm system is moving through the Sierra on February 11, 2026.

The players

Barbara Chung

A visitor from Hong Kong.

Marni McKee

A visitor from Sacramento.

Michael Norreel

A resident of Santa Rosa.

Jeremy Linder

A Public Information Officer with Caltrans.

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What they’re saying

“Yesterday it was sunny, there was no snow. With the fresh powder, it's much softer.”

— Barbara Chung

“Finally, we got the snow, it's a little powdery today.”

— Marni McKee

“Climate has changed. Thirty-five years ago, we didn't have the problem of not having enough snow, and now it's more difficult.”

— Michael Norreel

“Mother Nature season-wide is still saying it's winter and given us finally that reminder again. For those drivers that are going to be headed up either the next couple of days or even over the weekend, just be prepared.”

— Jeremy Linder, Public Information Officer, Caltrans

What’s next

Additional storms are possible next week, which could bring several more feet of snow to the Sierra.

The takeaway

This storm is a critical boost to the Sierra's underperforming snow season, reminding drivers to be prepared for winter conditions even after dry stretches. The snowfall could mark the beginning of a significant shift in the region's winter weather patterns.