Embrace the Chill: A La Niña Winter in the Sierra
Hola, My Friends
Winter is on the horizon, and with it comes the thrill of a La Niña pattern brewing in the Pacific. For those of us who live for the mountain lifestyle, this signals the potential for an epic season of #ColdSmokePow. So gear up and get ready for an unforgettable winter as we explore what La Niña might bring to the Sierra and Northern California.
What is La Niña?
La Niña is a climate pattern marked by cooler-than-average sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean. This phenomenon can drastically alter weather patterns worldwide, often delivering wetter and colder conditions to regions like ours. Of course, weather prognostication is a bit like consulting a Magic Eight Ball—sometimes it’s “Outlook Good,” and other times it’s “Reply Hazy, Try Again.”
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has announced a 79% chance of La Niña conditions developing from November through January (Climate Prediction Center) (Teton Gravity). This means we could be in for a winter wonderland in the Sierra! But let’s face it, when it comes to weather predictions, it’s all part of the long-shot guessing game.
La Niña’s Impact on the Sierra
Traditionally, La Niña winters bring abundant snowfall to the Sierra. Cold air masses from the north mix with moisture-laden systems, creating ideal conditions for snowstorms. Ski resorts in the Sierra are poised to receive substantial snowfall, offering perfect opportunities for those who crave #ColdSmokePow.
The National Weather Service (NWS) anticipates above-average snowfall for the Sierra Nevada, potentially extending the ski season and providing ample chances to shred the gnar (Climate Prediction Center) (NOAA). Imagine waking up to mornings blanketed in fresh pow, with the Sierra glistening in white—every snow lover's dream come true! Just remember, predicting snowfall is like playing a weather crap shoot—sometimes you hit the jackpot, and sometimes you don’t.
A Festive Northern California Winter
Beyond the mountains, Northern California’s lower elevations could also experience exciting changes. The Farmers' Almanac predicts wetter conditions this winter, bringing increased rain and the possibility of low-elevation snow. We’re all crossing our fingers that the Magic Eight Ball lands on “Yes, Definitely.”
Envision cozying up by the fire with a Glas’O’Red in hand or embarking on a full moon-shoe through a freshly dusted high Sierra meadow. This La Niña winter promises a magical atmosphere perfect for exploring Northern California's diverse landscapes (FREESKIER) (Climate Prediction Center).
Prepare for Adventure
With an epic winter on the horizon, staying informed is key. For the most up-to-date forecasts, visit my Lake Tahoe Weather Page for comprehensive Sierra weather updates. The Sierra Avalanche Center also provides crucial avalanche forecasts and safety information.
I’m hopeful for a gradual start to the season, beginning in November with heavy rain, transitioning to "snain," and eventually delivering copious amounts of #BaseBuilding #GorillaSnot to create the perfect holiday base. Then let the show begin with a 694" winter! As always, though, in this long-shot guessing game, we rely on prognostications and hope for the best.
This season, I'll be reporting on all the #BigDuckDumps of 2025 on KTVU2, The Weather Channel, NBC BayArea, KRON4, ABC7, and KCBS. But remember, we'll have to wait, watch, and see, as #MotherNature and Ole #KingNeptune have yet to show their cards :)
Stay stoked, stay safe, and here’s to a winter filled with #ColdSmokePow and TastyWinterWaves!