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I-80 Shuttered and Mammoth Closed as Feet of Snow Bury California
Major ski areas and highways forced to close due to dangerous winter storm conditions in the Sierra Nevada.
Published on Feb. 20, 2026
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A massive winter storm has brought heavy snow and blizzard conditions to the Sierra Nevada region, forcing the closure of Interstate 80 over Donner Summit and leading major ski resorts like Mammoth Mountain and Palisades Tahoe to suspend operations. The storm has created high avalanche danger in the backcountry, prompting search and rescue teams to respond to reports of missing skiers.
Why it matters
The closure of I-80 and the ski resorts disrupts travel and recreation for many in the region, highlighting the power of extreme winter weather to impact transportation and outdoor activities. The high avalanche risk also poses a serious safety concern for backcountry users.
The details
The California Highway Patrol reported zero visibility and "whiteout conditions" on I-80 over Donner Summit, leading to the closure of eastbound traffic at Applegate and westbound lanes at the Nevada state line. Mammoth Mountain has closed its Main Lodge operations due to up to 40 inches of snow at the summit, while other resorts like Palisades Tahoe, Boreal, and Soda Springs have also suspended operations due to the hazardous storm conditions and high avalanche danger.
- As of Tuesday morning, February 18, 2026, I-80 is closed in both directions over Donner Summit.
- Mammoth Mountain has closed its Main Lodge operations due to the heavy snowfall.
The players
California Highway Patrol (CHP)
The state law enforcement agency responsible for monitoring and responding to conditions on California's highways.
Mammoth Mountain
A major ski resort located in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California.
Palisades Tahoe
A ski resort in the Lake Tahoe region of California and Nevada.
Boreal
A ski resort located near Lake Tahoe on the California-Nevada border.
Soda Springs
A ski resort in the Lake Tahoe area of California.
What they’re saying
“The California Highway Patrol (CHP) in Truckee reported zero visibility and "whiteout conditions," making travel essentially impossible.”
— California Highway Patrol (tetongravity.com)
What’s next
The California Highway Patrol and state transportation officials will continue to monitor conditions on I-80 and work to reopen the highway once the storm passes and it is safe to do so. Ski resorts will also evaluate the weather and snowpack before deciding when to resume operations.
The takeaway
This winter storm serves as a reminder of the power of extreme weather to disrupt travel and outdoor recreation in the Sierra Nevada region. It highlights the importance of safety precautions and preparedness for both drivers and backcountry users when facing such severe conditions.
