Wind Chills Could Plunge to –10° in Yosemite as Cold Advisory Takes Hold
Yosemite visitors are in for a bitter blast of winter this week. The National Weather Service issued an updated cold weather advisory Wednesday morning, warning that temperatures in the high country could feel as low as 10 below zero through Thursday, Dec. 4 at 9 a.m.
According to NWS Hanford, the coldest conditions will impact elevations above 9,000 feet, where dangerously low wind chills can develop quickly. The agency urges anyone heading outdoors to bundle up: wear insulated clothing, hats, and gloves, and limit time outside to avoid hypothermia.
The advisory covers several Sierra locations, including:
- Yosemite
- Upper San Joaquin River
- Kaiser to Rodgers Ridge
- Kings Canyon National Park
- Sequoia National Park
- South End of the Upper Sierra
What the alerts mean
A Cold Weather Advisory means it’s time to be aware. Temperatures or wind chills will be unusually cold for this time of year, and exposed skin can chill fast.
An Extreme Cold Warning is more serious—this is when you should avoid going outside entirely. If you must travel, dress in layers, cover all skin, and let someone know your plans.
An Extreme Cold Watch signals that dangerous cold is possible. Prepare by adjusting travel plans, keeping your gas tank at least half full, and checking your winter survival kit.
