Reno, NV – A powerful early-season winter storm is forecast to hit the Sierra starting Monday afternoon, bringing heavy snow and dangerous travel conditions through Wednesday morning, according to the National Weather Service in Reno.
The Winter Storm Watch covers the Greater Lake Tahoe Area and Mono County, including South Lake Tahoe, Truckee, Incline Village, and Mammoth Lakes.
Forecasters expect 6 to 12 inches of snow above 7,000 feet, with up to 2 feet along the Sierra crest. At lake level, 1 to 3 inches are possible. In Mono County, totals could reach 16 inches to 3 feet along higher elevations near the crest.
Ridge winds may gust up to 80 mph, creating whiteout conditions and dangerous mountain travel, especially through Donner Pass, Carson Pass, Ebbetts Pass, Tioga Pass, and Sonora Pass.
According to the weather service, light snow showers may begin early Monday afternoon, with heavier snow developing Monday evening and continuing into Tuesday. The Monday evening and Tuesday morning commutes could be severely impacted.
Residents and travelers are urged to monitor the latest forecasts, delay mountain travel if possible, and prepare for power outages and hazardous driving conditions.
