A series of storms will bring periods of gusty winds, heavy mountain snow and valley rain with potential for widespread travel and recreation impacts for Carson City, western Nevada, Lake Tahoe and Sierra beginning late Monday.
The National Weather Service has issued a High Wind Watch for the region, as the strongest winds are most likely to continue Monday night through Tuesday morning, with widespread gusts of 45 to 60 mph possible, and stronger gusts for wind prone areas. Gusts well over 100 mph are expected over the Sierra ridges. The weather service has also issued a Winter Storm Watch for the Lake Tahoe area.
Sierra Rain and Snow
The heaviest rain and snowfall rates are expected late Monday night into Tuesday. Snow may begin to accumulate on the main Sierra passes starting late Tuesday morning, and into the Lake Tahoe basin and higher elevation roads of northeast California by Tuesday afternoon. Snow will continue overnight into Wednesday with storm snowfall totals of 2 or more feet possible above 8000 feet, and several inches to over 1 foot possible between 5,500 and 8,000 feet.
Lower Elevation Rain
The heaviest rain is most likely in western Nevada valleys and foothills Tuesday morning and afternoon. Rainfall totals could reach 1 inch in the main urban areas of Reno-Sparks, Carson City and Minden, with up to 2 inches in foothill locations and lighter amounts farther east. A mix of rain and snow will be possible by late Tuesday night in foothill locations, with light snow accumulations near and above 5,500 feet including areas near Virginia City.
Later in the week, more storm systems remain possible. The best chances for more snow continue to favor the Sierra, but light accumulations may occur in some western Nevada and eastern California valleys. Ongoing travel impacts due to wind and snow will be possible into the New Year’s holiday weekend.
The weather service advises that outdoor decorations should be secured or removed before the strong winds arrive late Monday night.
For the latest road conditions go to NVroads.com or call 5-1-1. Check back for updates.
