Weather Patterns Indicate Impressive Snowfall and Potential Avalanche Threat
MONO COUNTY, Calif. (JANUARY 8, 2023) – The Mono County Office of Emergency
Management (OEM) is urging residents and visitors to be READY Mono and prepare for the
upcoming storm as the National Weather Service (NWS) predicts impressive snowfall and rain
throughout the Eastern Sierra over the coming days. The next storm system is expected to hit
Mono County around 3AM on January 9, 2023 (Monday), bringing three to four inches of snow
per hour for extended periods of time until early Monday evening.

The incoming storm system has the potential to bring flooding and avalanches to Mono
County. Sand is available at various locations throughout the county at no charge, and Chris
Mokracek, OEM Director, advises residents and visitors living in avalanche prone areas to prepare for evacuation should weather conditions deteriorate.

Flooding Preparation
Flooding is a possibility, and sand is available at the following locations (bring a shovel):
• June Lake Community Center
• Lee Vining Airport
• Chalfant Fire Station
• Bridgeport Yard
• Benton Road Shop
• Mammoth Lakes Public Works

Avalanche Preparation
Local avalanche experts are growing more concerned with each storm that hits the Eastern Sierra.

Given the NWS recent report, residents and visitors are encouraged to take the following actions to prepare for possible avalanche conditions:
• Prepare a “Go Bag”
o Money: ATM and credit cards, checkbook(s), currency, safe deposit keys
o Medical items: Medical and dental records, immunization cards, glasses and contacts,
medications, prescriptions, first aid kit
o Personal Belongings: Clothing, toys and games, pet items, cell phone, electronics
chargers, toiletry kit
o Food/Water
o Documentation: Passport/Visa, marriage, birth, adoption and naturalization certificates, identification, driver’s license, auto insurance policies, registrations, and title (if applicable), school records, pet records,

• Arrange Lodging
o Identify and secure emergency lodging
• Prepare Transportation
o Fuel vehicles
o Arrange to carpool
o Identify and secure alternative transportation
• Monitor Weather/Avalanche Conditions
Details on avalanches warning signs, safety, and resources can be accessed https://www.weather.gov/safety/winter-avalanche
The Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center’s Backcountry Avalanche Forecast https://www.esavalanche.org/forecasts/#/eastside-region .