USFS: With Heavy Rain and Snow Forecasted

With Heavy Rain and Snow Forecasted, Public is Encouraged to Exercise Extreme Caution in the San Bernardino National Forest

San Bernardino, Calif., January 15, 2010 –With the National Weather Service forecasting significant snow and rain over the coming week, visitors to San Bernardino National Forest are encouraged to exercise extreme caution when driving and recreating in the National Forest and surrounding areas. Ice, mud, rock slides, washouts, flash flooding, slippery road surfaces, deep snow and heavy rainfall will present substantial safety concerns to the public.

Additionally, the NWS forecast for significant amounts of rain may create dangerous conditions in coastal areas where recent wildfires have reduced vegetation. The public is strongly discouraged from hiking in or around creek areas due to the potential for high waters, rock slides and debris flow.

The San Bernardino National Forest recommends the following safety precautions:

“Know Before You Go” Check local weather and road conditions before you head towards the National Forest.

Be prepared for a sudden change in conditions – the intensity of the weather can change at any moment

Carry Snow Chains and assure you know how to install them and they fit your tires.

Be prepared for a sudden change in conditions – the intensity of the weather can change at any moment

Bring a warm jacket, hat, gloves, appropriate footwear and an extra set of dry clothes. Layering of clothing is highly recommended.

Pack extra food and drinking water, a first aid kit, shovel and flashlight with fresh batteries.

Leave your itinerary of where you are headed and expected arrival and return times with a family member or friend, and if you become lost or injured, stay calm, seek shelter and remain near your planned route.

Cell phones are helpful, but do not work in many areas of the forest.


Do not attempt to drive across creeks or flooded roads where the water is deeper than 6 inches to avoid loss of control or possible stalling of your vehicle. Water one foot deep will float many vehicles and two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including SUV’s and pick up trucks.

Applewhite Picnic Area and Campground in Lytle Creek will be closed during the rain event starting Monday January 18, until it is deemed safe to reopen the site.

Expect forest service roads to be closed due to flooding and snow in many areas.


For the latest Road Conditions - 1-800-427-7623 or http://www.dot.ca.gov/

Forest visitors are encouraged to call ahead to the local Ranger Station to check on location conditions and restrictions.

Arrowhead Ranger Station 909-382-2758
Big Bear Ranger Station & Discovery Center 909-382-2790
Lytle Creek Ranger Station 909-382-2851
Idyllwild Ranger Station 909-382-2922
Mill Creek Ranger Station 909-382-2881
Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains National Monument 760-862-9984