California Moderate Special Weather Statement | Effective 06/18/2026 14:40

Headline: 
Special Weather Statement issued June 18 at 2:40PM PDT by NWS Hanford CA
Event: 
Special Weather Statement
Urgency: 
Expected
Effective: 
June 18, 2026 - 2:40pm
Expires: 
June 18, 2026 - 3:15pm
Description: 
At 240 PM PDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm 9 miles southeast of Yosemite Valley, or 14 miles northeast of Yosemite South Entrance. This thunderstorm was nearly stationary. HAZARD...Wind gusts up to 40 mph and pea size hail. SOURCE...Radar indicated. IMPACT...Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Minor hail damage to vegetation is possible. Locations impacted include... Merced Lake High Sierra Camp, Little Yosemite Valley Ranger Station, Morraine Dome Campground, Little Yosemite Valley Campground, and Merced Lake Ranger Station.
Instruction: 
If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building. Frequent cloud to ground lightning is occurring with this storm. Lightning can strike 10 miles away from a thunderstorm. Seek a safe shelter inside a building or vehicle. This storm may intensify, so be certain to monitor local radio stations and available television stations for additional information and possible warnings from the National Weather Service.
Area Description: 
Yosemite NP outside of the valley; Upper San Joaquin River
Forcast Office: 
NWS Hanford CA