California is facing severe winter weather as storms bring unusual snowfall and strong winds, causing significant damage and trapping residents.
Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency on Wednesday for 13 affected counties, including Amador, Kern, Los Angeles, and others. The emergency declaration aims to facilitate disaster response and relief in these areas.
According to state emergency officials and private weather forecasters, the financial damage from ongoing storms and flooding could exceed $1 billion. Over the past week, heavy snowfall has inundated mountainous regions.
In the San Bernardino Mountains, snow has blocked roads, leaving some residents stranded as crews work to clear them.
Aerial view of the snow-covered San Gabriel Mountains, as seen from the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles following a series of intense winter storms.Ski resorts have been forced to close, and Yosemite National Park has been shut indefinitely due to up to 15 feet of snow at higher elevations, with the Yosemite Valley floor receiving a record 40 inches of snow.
In Southern California, snowfall has dramatically altered the landscape, with snow-capped mountains visible from Los Angeles.
The storm system, which began in late February, has brought blizzard warnings, heavy rains, and rare low-elevation snow to areas usually known for their warm weather. The Hollywood sign, typically set against a backdrop of green hills, now stands in front of snow-covered mountains.
In Wrightwood, CA, residents like Norma Miro have been shoveling snow to clear their driveways and access their vehicles. The region remains closed to all but residents and essential workers while snow removal continues.
CalTrans has closed highways due to the heavy snowfall, and some areas, like Running Springs in the San Bernardino Mountains, remain inaccessible. Yosemite National Park continues to be covered in snow, with no reopening date set.