Reno, NV – A powerful Sierra storm is lining up to disrupt travel across Northern California and the Tahoe Basin starting Saturday morning, with conditions expected to rapidly worsen by the evening commute as snow and damaging winds intensify.
Snow will begin spreading into Lassen, eastern Plumas, and the Lake Tahoe region by Saturday morning, but the most dangerous conditions are expected by late afternoon into Saturday night. Visibility may drop sharply as winds increase, especially along exposed Sierra ridges and passes where gusts could reach 90 mph near the crest.
According to the National Weather Service in Reno, a Winter Storm Watch remains in effect through Sunday evening, with widespread snowfall totals of 6 to 12 inches above 6,500 feet and up to 24 inches across higher elevations. Around Lake Tahoe, communities such as Truckee, South Lake Tahoe, and Incline Village could see 6 to 10 inches, while elevations above 7,000 feet may receive 12 to 28 inches. In Lassen and eastern Sierra counties, including Susanville, Loyalton, and Portola, lower elevations may still pick up several inches, enough to create slick and hazardous roadways.
In Mono County, snow arrives earlier, beginning Friday evening near Mammoth Lakes and along Highway 395. Winds along the Sierra crest could peak between 70 and 80 mph, with gusts up to 40 mph impacting travel corridors. Snow totals there range from 2 to 6 inches at lower elevations, increasing to over a foot in higher terrain.
Travel impacts will peak between Saturday evening and Sunday morning, when snowfall rates and wind combine to create near whiteout conditions. Sierra passes, including those near Donner Summit and along Highway 395, could become extremely dangerous or impassable.
Drivers are urged to avoid mountain travel if possible and monitor road conditions closely. Those who must travel should carry chains, emergency supplies, and prepare for sudden closures or delays.
The storm begins to taper Sunday evening, but lingering impacts and additional advisories remain possible into early next week.
