A storm moving into the region will bring strong winds to the Sierra, Carson City and western Nevada areas today and overnight into Wednesday, with up to 18 inches of snow expected near the Sierra crest, according to the National Weather Service in Reno.
Wind gusts today and tonight will approach 45 mph in valley locations with stronger gusts in wind prone areas. Ridge gusts will approach 80 mph.
These winds will result in rough lake waters on Lake Tahoe and Pyramid Lake. In addition, blowing dust is possible over the Basin and Range with reduced visibility along Interstate 80 and Highways 50, 95, 395, and 447.
As the low moves inland for Wednesday a period of moderate to heavy snow will occur in the Sierra, with snow levels lowering near 5500 to 6500 feet. Total accumulations tonight through Wednesday night of 12 to 18 inches near the Sierra Crest will produce difficult travel conditions over Donner Summit, Echo Pass and Carson Pass.
Slick roads will also slow travel around the Tahoe Basin where 3 to 8 inches of snow is possible. Winter Weather Advisories are in effect in the Sierra. Periods of moderate to heavy snow are also possible in eastern Plumas and Sierra Counties west of Highway 89.
Across western Nevada, snow levels could fall as low as 5000 feet early Wednesday morning and after sunset Wednesday evening. This could lead to light snow accumulations in the foothills around Reno, Carson City, Minden and Virginia City during the early morning commute and again late in the evening, according to the weather service.
