Weather
Lake Tahoe Weather Alert: Strong Winds Monday, Snow Oct 21-22
Reno, NV – A major shift in the weather pattern is expected across western Nevada and the Sierra Nevada this week, bringing strong winds Monday, increasing rain and mountain snow chances by midweek, a
By Miles Carter · 2026-10-18T17:41:50.433Z
Reno, NV – A major shift in the weather pattern is expected across western Nevada and the Sierra Nevada this week, bringing strong winds Monday, increasing rain and mountain snow chances by midweek, and freezing overnight temperatures in higher elevations.
According to the National Weather Service in Reno, an approaching weather system will bring the strongest winds Monday, October 19, followed by widespread precipitation chances Wednesday and Thursday.
Strong Winds Monday Raise Fire Concerns Wind gusts could reach 30 mph across portions of the region Monday, while exposed Sierra ridgelines may experience gusts exceeding 60 mph.
Forecasters also identified localized critical fire weather conditions across northeastern California and northwestern Nevada.
Lake Tahoe could experience increased wave heights of up to 2 feet, producing choppy conditions for boaters.
The NWS estimates a 75% chance of gusts exceeding 30 mph around Reno on Monday, compared with 60% around South Lake Tahoe and 80% near Mount Rose Summit.
Rain and Mountain Snow Arrive Midweek Isolated showers could develop Tuesday afternoon before precipitation chances increase to 50% to 80% across the forecast area Wednesday and Thursday.
Mountain locations in Mono County above 8,000 feet could receive 3 to 8 inches of snow.
Thunderstorm chances are forecast at 15% to 25% Wednesday and Thursday afternoons.
Rain and snow could affect mountain travel, particularly where temperatures fall below freezing.
Colder Temperatures Follow Afternoon highs are expected to fall into the lower to middle 60s across lower valleys, while Sierra communities could remain in the lower to middle 50s.
Overnight temperatures are forecast to drop below freezing across the Sierra.
Conditions should gradually improve Friday, with drier weather, lighter winds and a slight warming trend expected Saturday and beyond.
Residents and travelers should monitor updated forecasts as the system approaches, particularly those planning mountain travel or activities on Lake Tahoe.