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Selma Today
By the People, for the People
Winter Storm Disrupts Holiday Travel Across California, Oregon
Snowfall totals could reach up to 5 feet in parts of the Sierra Nevada and Cascade mountain ranges.
Published on Feb. 16, 2026
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A powerful winter storm is expected to intensify across Northern California and parts of southern Oregon on Presidents' Day weekend, prompting major travel warnings from the National Weather Service. The storm could bring up to 3 feet of snow to the Sierra Nevada and Cascade mountain ranges, making travel conditions very difficult or impossible. Officials are urging travelers to exercise caution and consider adjusting their plans if possible.
Why it matters
This winter storm has the potential to significantly disrupt holiday travel plans for many families and vacationers across the region. The heavy snowfall and poor visibility could lead to road closures, dangerous driving conditions, and extended travel delays, impacting both those trying to return home as well as those still planning to travel to their destinations.
The details
The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm watch, warning that the storm is expected to intensify on Monday evening and continue through midweek. Snowfall totals could reach up to 3 feet in the Sierra Nevada range, with visibility dropping to less than a quarter-mile at times. Other mountain ranges, including the White and Inyo Mountains, the San Bernardino County Mountains, and parts of southwestern Oregon, are also forecast to see significant snowfall, with accumulations of 1 to 5 feet possible. The NWS is advising travelers to carry emergency supplies, check forecasts, and call 511 for the latest road conditions before setting out.
- The storm is expected to intensify on Monday evening and continue through midweek.
- Up to 3 feet of snow could fall across the Sierra Nevada range from Tuesday morning through Wednesday night.
- Snowfall totals of 8 to 15 inches are forecast for the San Bernardino County Mountains by Thursday.
- Parts of southwestern Oregon could see up to 2 feet of snow in the Kalmiopsis region by Thursday morning.
- The heaviest snowfall is expected to occur overnight Monday into Tuesday morning.
The players
National Weather Service (NWS)
The National Weather Service is a scientific agency within the United States Department of Commerce that is responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather warnings.
What’s next
The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the storm and provide updated forecasts and travel advisories as the situation evolves.
The takeaway
This powerful winter storm serves as a reminder for travelers to closely monitor weather conditions, plan ahead, and be prepared for potential delays and disruptions to their holiday travel plans across California and Oregon.
