Schools Closed For Snow Day In Big Bear

BIG BEAR (CBSLA.com) — A snow day – in May?

Kids in Big Bear enjoyed a surprise snow day after schools were closed Friday after a late spring storm blasted the local mountains.

Highway 18 to Big Bear in May is not usually a scene of snow and ice – but the rare spring storm transformed the mountains into a winter wonderland. In Big Bear Village, the snow didn't last long, but it was enough to draw some families to the mountain.

The Fischer family decided the rare snow event was reason enough to drive out to Big Bear from Rancho Santa Margarita.

"We were by the beach two days ago, enjoying the sunshine and we thought we would take advantage of this little snow storm," Michael Fischer said.

Locals say the timing of the snow is not great because the resorts have closed – but the lake will still benefit.

"Too little too late?" Big Bear resident Fran Cortright said. "Well, we needed it, so it's not too late. Better than nothing."

Friday's dusting was so unexpected that Snow Summit staff actually expected to open for their summer season Friday. The resort's summer opening was postponed for another week.

The storm packed enough punch to give Rim of the World Unified School District students the day off -- and it seemed the kids definitely enjoyed winter in May.

Their Friday weather prediction?

"I predict that we will have lots of fun," one child said.