Sierra Nevada receives first major snowfall of the season

The Sierra Nevada mountain range experienced its first significant storm of the 2026-27 winter season, bringing rain and snow to various elevations. According to Matt Chyba of the National Weather Service’s Reno office, the precipitation occurred from Tuesday through Thursday, with snow primarily falling above 8,000 feet.

The Mammoth Mountain region was a notable beneficiary, receiving up to 5 inches of snow. Local tourism officials noted the aesthetic contrast between autumn foliage and the new snow. Mammoth Mountain Ski Area is currently scheduled to open on November 13.

Meteorologists suggest the upcoming winter could be particularly wet and snowy due to the likelihood of a strong El Niño. While a flood watch was issued for parts of northwestern Nevada and northeastern California during the storm, no major issues were reported.