Southern California mountains got plenty of snow — with more on the way

The first of three storms to hit Southern California this week dumped several inches of snow atop mountain communities — with more on the horizon.

“(It’s) going to be, very probably, the best snowfall we’ve had all winter so far this season,” National Weather Service meteorologist Rich Thompson said.

But with it could come treacherous traveling.

So far, the San Bernardino Mountains have received 12 to 15 inches of snow, with nearby Wrightwood getting six inches, said Adam Roser, another Weather Service meteorologist. Three inches of snow have landed on Idyllwild as of Tuesday morning, Feb. 17.

In the San Gabriel Mountains, Mount Wilson received three inches of snow. Higher up near the Mountain High resort, at around 7,000 feet elevation, 10 to 15 inches of snow has fallen so far, Thompson said.

The second and third storms of the week were forecast to begin rolling over the region on Tuesday night, Feb. 17, and expected to bring more snow.

The San Bernardino Mountains will get another foot to two feet by Thursday. Idyllwild will get an estimated four to six inches of more snow — and an additional four to eight inches of rain.

The San Gabriel Mountains is forecast for four inches of snow at roughly 3,500 feet elevation — and one to three feet at 6,000 feet and higher — with rain forecast as well for at least some areas.

Gusty wind is expected to visit the San Bernardino and San Gabriel mountains in coming days, ranging from 40 to 70 mph.

Meteorologists advised the public to avoid mountain travel if possible.

“But if you have to, just make sure you have like some stuff in your car … some water, some food and some blankets or extra jackets, in case you do get stuck on a road somewhere due to traffic or snow issues,” Thompson said.

No major snow-related problems were reported as of Tuesday morning.