UPDATE: A significant winter storm is poised to hit Mammoth Mountain just as the resort gears up for its 2025/2026 season opener scheduled for Friday, November 14. Weather forecasts predict as much as 2 feet of snow at higher elevations, creating a perfect backdrop for skiers and snowboarders eagerly awaiting the start of the season.
Meteorologists with the National Weather Service are reporting that a strong Pacific low-pressure system will bring a mix of rain and snow to the Eastern Sierras, with the storm expected to initiate on Wednesday, November 12. This robust weather system carries a moisture plume and solid jet support, leading to what is anticipated to be a well-organized Sierra storm.
“There is a 90% potential for the upper mountain to receive at least 1 foot of snow,” stated Chris Johnston, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service. “It looks pretty good.” The storm is expected to intensify with strong winds kicking in on Thursday, November 13, setting the stage for a substantial snow accumulation that could begin that night.
Mammoth Mountain, located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, is about a five-to-six-hour drive north of Los Angeles, attracting over 1.3 million visitors annually, primarily from Southern California. The resort boasts more than 3,500 acres of skiable terrain at an elevation of 11,053 feet. Last season, Mammoth reported a total of 286 inches of snow, with February alone bringing in 74 inches. However, the total was slightly below average, as the season began with just 3 inches of snow in October.
This year, Mammoth has already received 16 inches of snow, and resort officials are hopeful that the upcoming storm will provide the necessary base for opening day. “We need a base of 12 to 18 inches, which is more once it’s compacted,” explained Joani Lynch, vice president of marketing and sales for Mammoth Mountain. “If we can’t make it Friday, we will aim for the first day there is enough snow on the ground.”
In addition to Mammoth, the storm is expected to bring rain to Southern California, with the San Bernardino Mountains likely experiencing their first snow accumulations of at least a couple of inches. Snow showers may also affect the San Gabriel Mountains on Thursday and Friday, with minimal accumulation anticipated in areas like Mount Baldy.
As the countdown to opening day continues, the resort is preparing to operate all open chairlifts and runs based out of the Main Lodge, with plans to expand operations as snow conditions allow.
Skiers and snowboarders are encouraged to keep an eye on the weather forecasts as Mother Nature seems poised to deliver a stellar start to the ski season at Mammoth Mountain. Stay tuned for further updates as this developing story unfolds.
