Rain, snow showers close 3 major mountain roads in Sierra

SIERRA NEVADA, Calif. (KRON) – Sierra snow is on the way!

Significant changes in weather are headed toward the Sierra Nevada Mountains, according to the National Weather Service.

Significant changes in the weather are coming!

First cold front will bring rain and mountain snow showers Thu-Fri with a break over the weekend.

THEN…Much colder (i.e. FREEZING) temperatures are likely with chances for additional rain and snow. https://t.co/HbSuxxNLRh pic.twitter.com/KPFr23pKNr

— NWS Reno (@NWSReno) October 5, 2021

A cold front will bring rain and mountain snow showers from Thursday to Friday, and then even colder temperatures are forecasted with more rain and snow next week.

The wintry weather caused Caltrans to closed three main mountain passes starting on Thursday, October 7th.

ATTN DRIVERS: With @NWSReno forecasting 🌨️, @Caltrans9 is closing three mountain roads starting tomorrow, October 7.

Sonora Pass/SR 108 will close at noon.
Monitor Pass/SR 89 will close at 2:00 pm.
SR 120 W will close at 5:00 pm.

All 3 roads will be evaluated on Saturday. pic.twitter.com/kpeNR4p7NT

— Caltrans District 9 (@Caltrans9) October 6, 2021

California’s first official snow of the season came Wednesday, September 29th with a dusting on Mammoth Mountain.

According to the National Park Service, Highway 120, which passes through Yosemite National Park, will be closed starting at 5 p.m.

According to Caltrans, conditions will be assessed and highways could reopen Saturday, but more winter weather could be on the way for Monday.

🌧️We are expecting light precipitation over the Sierra through Friday, and even some light snow in the higher elevations. Here in the valley, some locations may see sprinkles. #CAwx pic.twitter.com/eJEdNEWWtC

— NWS Sacramento (@NWSSacramento) October 7, 2021

Weather officials said while the snow is expected to remain light, it will be the first widespread snow of the season.

Cold weather is expected to move into the region early next week.