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Yosemite National Park has closed indefinitely after breaking the 54-year snowfall record.California

Yosemite National Park has been closed indefinitely as it grapples with heavy snow that breaks the 54-year-old record for a single day, officials said.

Nearly unprecedented snowfall across the western United States has buried parks in snow up to 15 feet deep in some areas. Parts of the West Coast have seen record-breaking snow over the last few days in what officials call a “once in a generation” event.

the mountains of California Over 40 feet of snow has fallen since the start of the season, shutting down entire towns. California’s governor has declared a state of emergency in 13 counties due to unusual rainfall.

A Curry Village tent cabin nestled in the snow of Yosemite National Park. Photo: Yosemite Hospitality

Yosemite has been closed for the past five days due to extreme weather and was previously scheduled to reopen on Thursday. Officials do not yet have a projected reopening date.

“There was considerable snowfall in all areas of the park”, Park said on TwitterPhotos show how snow has covered Half Dome, completely blocking the building’s doorways and nearly filling the tents.

Entrance of a building covered in snow
Yosemite receives significant snowfall in all areas of the park, with some areas having snow up to 15 feet deep. Photo: Yosemite Hospitality

Yosemite broke its daily snowfall record on Tuesday with 40 inches of snow, officials said. San Francisco Chronicle, surpassing the record set in 1969. Park crews are working to clear roads and restore “critical services” before visitors return.

“We are committed to opening the park as soon as possible in a safe manner,” said Scott Gediman, a park spokesperson.

Snow outside the bathroom door in Yosemite National Park.
Snow outside the bathroom door in Yosemite National Park. Photo: Yosemite National Park

The Sierra Nevada mountains are experiencing significant snowfall and avalanches, making it almost impossible to cross the mountains. As another storm approaches, the National Weather Service (NWS) has warned of “widespread travel impacts.”

“Again, we anticipate travel delays and road closures into western Nevada until Sunday morning, as well as into the Sierra Mountains,” it said. NWS Reno the office said.

Joshua Tree National Park, meanwhile, reopened on Thursday after being closed the day before by winter storms.

Dirt roads in the park remain closed, and officials warned that there may be water or ice on the roads and advised visitors to be careful.



https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/mar/02/yosemite-national-park-shut-snowfall-california Yosemite National Park has closed indefinitely after breaking the 54-year snowfall record.California

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