WINTER STORM WATCH ISSUED: SNOW DOWN TO 2,000 FEET

February 25, 2011 (San Diego’s East County) – A cold storm will bring heavy snowfall late tonight through Saturday evening.

Snow is forecast to drop to unusually low elevations of 2,000 feet in East County’s mountains and upper deserts. Interstate 8 east of Alpine, Cuyamaca, Boulevard, Descanso Ranchita, and Pine Valley are among the areas where snow is predicted, as well as Palomar and Laguna mountains, where more than a foot of snow fell last weekend.

Heavy showers are forecast for other areas of the county with flooding in low-lying areas.  Southwest winds of 20-30 mph with gusts to 50 mph will make visibility near zero at times in heavy, blowing snow and fog. Motorists are advised to check road reports, carry chains and take extra food and clothing if you must travel in the mountains.

The County Department of Public Works has set up an emergency page for the storm with information on where you can get free sand bags, road conditions and more:    http://sdcdpw.org/emergency