Reno, NV – A High Wind Warning is now in effect for the Lake Tahoe Basin, Reno–Carson–Minden area, and Mono County from 1 a.m. to 10 p.m. Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service in Reno.
Forecasters predict southwest winds of 35 to 45 mph, with gusts up to 65 mph, and ridgetop gusts reaching 110 mph across the Sierra. Along U.S. Highway 395, gusts may hit 70 to 80 mph, creating dangerous travel conditions for high-profile vehicles and potentially closing mountain passes.
In the Lake Tahoe area, wind gusts up to 45 mph on the lake are expected to generate wave heights of 3 to 5 feet, posing hazards for boaters and shoreline communities. Officials warn that damaging winds may down trees and power lines, causing widespread outages and property damage.
The National Weather Service urges residents to secure outdoor items, prepare for potential power loss, and avoid travel during the peak wind window Wednesday morning through late evening. Those in forested or burn-scar areas—such as the Davis Fire zone—are advised to remain cautious due to unstable trees.
Conditions are expected to ease by late Wednesday night, though cleanup and restoration may continue into Thursday.
