Mike Pechner's Weather Blog;

The Weather and You, by Meteorologist Mike Pechner
November 6, 2009

"Skiers still waiting for Sierra Snow"

  Last week I mentioned the possibility of some Sierra snow with the weather front that has produced over an inch of rain in Occidental according to KCBS Weather observer Jackie Holmes.  However, the weather system weakened considerably as it moved thru the Central Bay Area and the Northern Sierra Nevada. 
   The latest satellite image from the National Weather shows two more low pressure storm centers off the West Coast.  One is north of Hawaii called a "Kona Low" and another farther north in the Gulf of Alaska.  In between is an area of high pressure which will keep Northern California and the Bay Region mostly sunny and cool thru Monday. 
   The computer forecast models are a little more bullish on the Gulf of Alaska system with more moisture and colder air. 
   Snow levels could be around 5000 ft. with at least 12" of snow above 6000 ft.  Of course forecast models can change as we get closer to the event; nevertheless, most resort operators consider it a bonus if there is Thanksgiving skiing. The drought pattern of the last three winters has resulted in a later start to the ski season, but that is not always the case even in wet years.  The severe rain and windstorm of December 15th, 1995 was the first storm of the season and produced enough snow for resorts to open by Christmas. Holiday skiing produces a lot of revenue and the lack of snow for Christmas and New Years can be a big disappointment for skiers. 
   One of the best places on the Internet for up to date ski information is:  slidingonthecheap.com.   
   Finally, the opinions expressed in this BLOG are my own.  If you are interested in sponsoring this blog or my weekend weather broadcasts, please contact the KCBS Sales Team at 415-765-4165. Share the road with cyclists and drive safe!