Reno, NV – Thunderstorms could erupt near the Reno-Carson City corridor by midafternoon Saturday, bringing lightning, brief heavy downpours and wind gusts strong enough to jolt drivers along I-580 and US-395 within hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Reno, a series of low-pressure systems will move through the region this weekend, triggering a 15 to 30 percent chance of isolated to scattered thunderstorms Saturday afternoon and evening. Storms may form over Alpine County before drifting north toward the Reno-Sparks area. Gusty ridge winds, small hail and brief heavy rainfall are possible under stronger cells.
Valley rain showers will develop Saturday with snow levels near 9,000 feet, keeping major passes initially wet. By Sunday night into Monday, colder air lowers snow levels closer to 7,000 feet. That shift could bring accumulating snow to higher Sierra routes, including stretches of I-80 near Donner Pass and along Mt. Rose Highway. Up to 3 inches of snow may fall along the Sierra crest by Monday morning.
Drivers should prepare for rapidly changing conditions. Lightning poses a risk to outdoor recreation, and sudden downpours could reduce visibility to less than a mile. Slow down on slick pavement and avoid mountain travel during heavier bursts of snow late Sunday night.
Showers and isolated thunderstorms may linger into Monday, especially south toward Mono and Mineral counties. Additional advisories are possible if stronger cells organize or if Sierra snowfall increases.
