Powerful winter storm takes aim at Carson City, Lake Tahoe and surrounding counties
Motorists are urged to avoid travel as a major winter storm will bring multiple rounds of snow to all elevations Monday and Tuesday, along with gusty winds across the Sierra that will produce blowing snow and localized blizzard conditions, according to the National Weather Service.
A Winter Storm Warning is in effect through 4 a.m. Wednesday for Carson City and surrounding counties and a Blizzard Warning has been issued for the greater Lake Tahoe area, also through 4 a.m. Wednesday.
The incoming storm threat prompted Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo to order a closure of state offices Monday throughout Northern Nevada. School and college campuses throughout the region were also closed Monday due to the storm with remote classes remaining in session.
Carson City area
Two waves of moderate to heavy snowfall are expected Monday afternoon and evening followed by a second wave Tuesday morning through afternoon, NWS forecasters said. Widespread travel impacts will be across the region and travel is not advised. The hazardous conditions could impact morning and evening commutes.
For Washoe County, Carson City, Carson Valley, Lyon and Storey counties, heavy snow is expected with accumulations Monday of 1-3 inches with the potential for more in the lower valleys and 3 to 6 inches above 5,000 feet. Additional snow accumulations on Tuesday are expected to be between 3 to 6 inches in the valleys, and 5 to 10 inches above 5,000 feet.
Wind will accompany the storm, with gusts as high as 45 mph, according to NWS forecasters. Strong winds could cause tree damage and power outages. A Wind Advisory is in place for the greater Reno, Carson City, Carson Valley areas. Those staying at home should have a backup plan in case of power outages including flashlights, candles and having cell phones charged.
The weather service advises against travel and urges those who do to prepare for potential long delays and carry an emergency kit with extra food, water and clothing. The latest road conditions can be found at NVroads.com or by calling 511. Go here for the latest discussion from National Weather Service forecasters.
Lake Tahoe and the Sierra
The National Weather Service has issued a Blizzard Warning from 11 a.m. Monday to 4 a.m. Wednesday. Total snow accumulations of 2 to 3 feet are possible at lake level and 4 to 6 feet above 7,000 feet.
NWS forecasters say winds will gust as high as 55 mph with over 100 mph along Sierra ridgetops. On Lake Tahoe, waves are expected to be between 2 to 5 feet. There's also a Backcountry Avalanche Warning for the greater Lake Tahoe area and throughout the eastern Sierra.
Travel is not advised and could be impossible with near zero visibility at times through early Wednesday morning. Strong winds could cause tree damage and power outages. If you risk travel you could become stranded in vehicles for hours. A combination of winds and waves may capsize small vessels on Lake Tahoe.
"Blizzard conditions could produce life threatening situations. Avoid unnecessary travel," according to a weather service statement. "Road crews and first responders may not be able to rescue you. Stay indoors until the snow and wind subside. Even a short walk could be deadly if you become disoriented."
Check back for updates.