Spring Storm Delivers Snow To Sierra Nevada Mountains

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE (AP) — Spring has sprung in much of California, but winter is hanging on in parts of the Sierra Nevada, where snow fell Sunday and forecasters warned of hazardous travel conditions.

The National Weather Service issued a winter weather advisory through 11 p.m., predicting up to 10 inches (25 centimeters) of snow in mountains above 5000 feet (1,524 meters) near Lake Tahoe.

"Snow has started over the Sierra!" the weather service's Sacramento office tweeted around midday. "If you have mountain travel plans be prepared for winter driving conditions, gusty winds, and low visibility at times."

Chains were recommended for vehicles on Northern California mountain routes, including Interstate 80 and State Route 50.

Light rain fell across the San Francisco Bay Area, where overnight temperatures could drop into the low 40s (about 5 Celsius).

Despite the spring snow, California remains locked in drought after historically dry winter months. The Sierra snowpack, a key part of the state's water supply, was just 38% of average on April 1, when it is normally at its peak.