Palisades Tahoe Braces for Over 50 Inches of Snow

Forecasters predict a major winter storm will pummel California's Sierra Nevada mountains next week.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

The long-awaited pattern change has arrived, and forecasters say feet of snow could pummel the mountains and ski resorts across California, including Palisades Tahoe and Sugar Bowl, which are expected to receive over 60 inches of snow early next week. The National Weather Service has warned of major travel impacts, with the snow level possibly dropping below 5,000 feet. Mammoth Mountain has already seen 11-17 inches of snow, with howling winds and heavy snowfall.

Why it matters

The heavy snowfall is welcome news for skiers and snowboarders who have endured a largely dry season with few powder days. However, the thinner snow cover in the mountains can also cause concerns about future wildfires and lessened water resources.

The details

According to the weather forecast, the Sierra Nevada mountains, including Palisades Tahoe and Sugar Bowl ski resorts, are expected to receive over 60 inches of snow early next week. The National Weather Service has warned of major travel impacts, with the snow level possibly dropping below 5,000 feet. Mammoth Mountain has already seen 11-17 inches of snow, with howling winds and heavy snowfall.

  • The long-awaited pattern change has arrived this week.
  • By Monday, weather conditions are expected to degrade, with the snow level possibly plunging below 5,000 feet.
  • Early next week, Palisades Tahoe and Sugar Bowl are expected to receive over 60 inches of snow.

The players

Palisades Tahoe

A ski resort located in Lake Tahoe, California.

Sugar Bowl

A ski resort located in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California.

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather warnings.

Mammoth Mountain

A ski resort located in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California.

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What they’re saying

“Welcome back winter”

— Mammoth Mountain (Mammoth Mountain's social media)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This heavy snowfall is a welcome relief for skiers and snowboarders who have endured a dry season, but it also raises concerns about the impact on the region's water resources and wildfire risk.