High elevation and Pacific moisture contribute to the high snowfall in the Sierra Nevada during winter.

The Sierra Nevada experiences heavy snowfall during the winter due to its high elevation and the presence of moisture from the Pacific Ocean. When moist air from the Pacific Ocean moves eastward, it is forced upward by the mountains, causing the air to cool and release moisture in the form of snow. The higher the elevation, the more likely the area is to receive substantial snow, especially during winter storms. This combination of high altitude and moisture-laden air from the Pacific is essential for the Sierra Nevada’s snowy winter climate.