Elko, Nevada – Travel across northern Elko County could deteriorate quickly after 4 p.m. Wednesday as snow and 45 mph wind gusts begin hammering high-elevation roads.
According to the National Weather Service in Elko, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 4 p.m. Wednesday through 7 p.m. Thursday for Northern Elko County and the Ruby Mountains and East Humboldt Range. Snow totals will vary by elevation, with up to 3 inches along Mountain City Highway, around 7 inches in the Jarbidge Wilderness and as much as 11 inches in the Ruby Mountains.
Strong winds may produce blowing snow and sharply reduced visibility, especially along exposed stretches near Mountain City, Tuscarora and Charleston. Drifting snow could make travel difficult for the Wednesday evening commute and again early Thursday morning. Tree damage is also possible where heavy snow combines with gusty winds.
Drivers should slow down, carry winter emergency supplies and check Nevada 511 before heading into higher terrain. Snow continues through Thursday before tapering late in the day, but slick conditions may persist into Thursday night as temperatures drop.
