FRESNO COUNTY, Calif. (KFSN) — The California Highway Patrol has a simple message for those heading to the mountains this weekend: be prepared or delay your trip.

“Every time winter comes, the Highway Patrol is right behind it,” said California Highway Patrol Officer Mike Salas.

This winter season is the same; The California Highway Patrol takes no chances when it comes to road safety.

“We are deploying additional officers, particularly in the higher elevations near Shaver Lake and Huntington Lake,” Salas said.

The National Weather Service Hanford has issued a winter weather advisory through Friday evening.

More than 3 inches of snow is forecast in the Shaver Lake area and between 4 and 6 inches of snow in Huntington Lake.

Overnight, China Peak received up to 3 inches of snow. As of Friday afternoon, the station measured 6 to 8 inches.

“We anticipate not only the snow on the ground, but also the additional volume of traffic that will go up there,” Salas said.

For nearly 30 years, Shaver Lake Sports has sold almost everything from coats to sleds to tire chains.

Everything visitors to the valley could need for snow and for those who live right here in this mountain community.

“As far as supplies go, we have everything anyone can imagine for snow,” said Tyler Powell, general manager of Shaver Lake Sports.

Powell said she saw a slight increase in foot traffic inside the store before this weekend’s snowstorm.

The store’s best-selling item this time of year? Tire chains.

“They range from $70 to $250, depending on the size of the tires,” Powell said.

Powell says chains are essential for traveling in the snow.

“No matter what vehicle you’re in, everyone is required to carry them at all times – even if you have 4-wheel drive, you have to put chains in your vehicle,” Powell said.

Shaver Lake Sports welcomes all who visit and play in the snow safely with some helpful reminders.

“If you have to put chains on, do it on the side of the road. Don’t do them in the middle of the road. Stay off homeowners’ private property when sledding,” Powell said .

Over the next 48 to 60 hours, China Peak says it will continue to use its snow machines to produce snow, preparing to welcome back guests to the resort on its opening day set for November 23 .

For updates, follow Christina Lopez on Facebook, X And Instagram.