While eyes are on the significant winter storm headed for the Sierra and Carson City region, the National Weather Service warns that winds ahead of the storm may be damaging and among the strongest we’ve experienced in the past two years.
The weather system is expected to blow into the region late Wednesday. Widespread sustained winds in the 30 to 50 mph range are possible starting very early Thursday with gusts in the 60 to 75 mph range. Gusts up to 90 mph will be possible in/near the foothills of the Sierra from southern Washoe County south into Mono County.
Whatever the case, being on the water wouldn’t be a good idea. Wave heights of up to seven feet are possible at Lake Tahoe and five feet at Pyramid Lake, according to the weather service.
High wind warnings are in effect for the Sierra, northeast California, and portions of western Nevada. Winds this strong will likely cause damage so make sure to secure or remove any loose outdoor items including holiday decorations. It’s also a good idea to bring in the pets. In addition, hazardous driving conditions are expected especially for east-west oriented routes.
Travel restrictions can be expected along portions of Highway 395 and Interstate 580, and possibly Highways 50 and 95 as well as Interstate 80.
As far as precipitation goes, rain is expected to begin Thursday, with bands of heavy precipitation spreading south and east Thursday night. Preliminary precipitation amounts for the Lake Tahoe Basin and toward the Highway 395 corridor could amount to 2 to 4 inches near the Sierra Crest, 1-2.5 inches for the Lake Tahoe Basin, 2/3-inch in the foothills and up to a half inch rain possible for the remainder of Western Nevada, including Carson City, according to the weather service.
As for snow levels, they will start near 7,500 feet and then fall quickly to near 6,000 feet within a few hours Thursday afternoon and evening. Snow levels will continue to fall to near 5,000 feet Friday morning. Two feet of snow is possible for the Sierra Crest with up to a foot at lake level in the Tahoe basin.
