RENO, Nevada – Northern and central Nevada’s stretch of mild, dry fall weather is nearing an end as colder air and early snow move in between November 9 and 15. Forecasters say the first widespread taste of winter will spread across the Great Basin early next week, with mountain passes and high deserts turning snowy and cold.
According to the NOAA Climate Prediction Center, much of Nevada will run below normal in temperature and near to slightly above normal in precipitation through mid-November. That setup favors light to moderate snow in higher terrain — especially across the Ruby Mountains, central ranges near Austin, and the Sierra foothills near Reno — with rain changing to snow in lower valleys.
The National Weather Service offices in Reno and Elko report that a strong cold front arriving early next week will drive highs into the 40s and lows into the 20s, with single digits possible in remote valleys. Scattered snow showers may linger through midweek, and gusty northwest winds could create blowing snow and icy stretches along I-80, U.S. 50, and U.S. 93.
Residents are urged to prepare now for early winter impacts — test heating systems, insulate pipes, and stock up on essentials before the colder pattern sets in. Travelers crossing mountain routes should be ready for chain requirements or brief road closures during heavier snow bursts.
With Thanksgiving travel season approaching, forecasters say Nevada’s upcoming cold snap signals the start of a longer, stormier stretch across the Great Basin — a clear sign that winter is knocking early this year.
