Yes, Big Bear already has snow, but technically, those storms, including Thanksgiving storms, were just like winter. These storms and forecast storms during the week of Christmas are winter storms.
Chains are required on all mountain routes leading to Big Bear. R-2 restrictions apply, meaning that all vehicles except four-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicles must have a chain or traction control device. All vehicles have to be chained.
On Highway 18 from Green Valley to Big Bear Dam, on the lower route from Highway 18 to the junction of Highway 18, and on Highway 38 from Angelus Oaks to Green Way Drive on Chain Control 18 in Big Bear City.
Several inches of snow is expected to fall on Monday in this storm. Tuesday will be partly cloudy and cold with a high temperature of 33 degrees. The next storm system runs on Christmas day, with snow expected on Friday, December 27.

Snow levels will be around 5,000 feet on Monday. The next storm can snow down to 2,500 feet.
Passengers should be prepared with extra clothes, water, a full tank of gas, blankets, non-edible food, gloves, hats and jackets in case of delay in weather conditions.
To stay on top of the weather and road conditions, download the Big Bear Now app and always know before you go. See weather and road conditions before hitting the highway. Thursday, December 26, is expected to be the busiest travel day of the season.
Delays on the mountains are possible due to snow and heavy traffic. A powerful storm hit the Southern California during the Thanksgiving holiday turned Big Bear Mountain Resort into a winter wonderland on Friday’s opening day.
Another 18 inches of snow fell on the mountain overnight, 48 hours in total at 4 feet above and 42 inches at lower elevations, according to the resort.
Those wishing to participate in the opening day at Bear Mountain can run in a big nap – how to get there.
Still under the influence of storm warnings in winter, and snow is expected from Friday night, all routes to Big Bear are closed to non-residents.