San Bernardino Daily: Storm Cleanup, Mountain Rescues, and Ongoing Weather Concerns

San Bernardino, CA is catching its breath after a week of powerful winter weather that buried mountain communities in deep snow, cut power to hundreds of homes, and forced school closures.

County digs out after first major winter storm

San Bernardino County officials say the season’s first major winter storm dropped up to 3 feet of snow in some mountain areas, keeping road crews working around the clock. Plows have been focusing on key routes that connect communities such as Running Springs, Lake Arrowhead, and Big Bear to the valley below.

Public Works staff are urging drivers heading into the mountains to prepare for rapidly changing conditions, carry chains, slow down on icy roads, and leave extra time for travel. Visitors are also being asked to park only in legal areas and keep road shoulders clear so large equipment and emergency vehicles can get through.

Schools close amid outages and dangerous roads

Heavy snowfall and downed power lines forced multiple school closures heading into the weekend, especially in the Bear Valley area. District officials cited unsafe bus routes and lingering outages in some neighborhoods as the main reasons for canceling in-person classes.

Families in higher-elevation neighborhoods have reported going days without electricity and heat as crews work through snow, ice, and fallen trees to restore service. Local officials warn that even as skies clear, thaw-and-refreeze cycles overnight will keep some mountain roads slick into early next week.

Rescuers save stranded camper and dog

Amid the storms, a backcountry camping trip north of Big Bear turned into a rescue operation when a man and his dog became trapped in deep snow in the Holcomb Valley area. After the camper’s vehicle became immobile and volunteer off-roaders could not reach him, San Bernardino County firefighters deployed a snowcat to make their way in.

Rescuers found the man and his dog in good condition, thanks to adequate supplies and shelter, and brought them safely back to town. Fire officials are using the incident as a reminder that even experienced outdoors enthusiasts can get caught by fast-changing conditions, and they are urging anyone traveling into remote areas to check forecasts, share itineraries, and pack extra food, water, and warm clothing.

Winter warning winds down, hazards remain

While the latest winter storm warning for the San Bernardino County mountains has expired, forecasters say residual snow, ice, and tree damage will keep hazards elevated for at least the next few days. Drivers are encouraged to monitor highway updates before heading toward the Cajon Pass or mountain highways and to be prepared for intermittent chain controls.

County officials emphasize that the snow brings welcome recreation and tourism, but ask residents and visitors alike to prioritize safety as the region transitions from emergency response to cleanup and recovery.