South Lake Tahoe, California – Travel around Lake Tahoe and across the eastern Sierra is expected to become extremely difficult starting late Monday night as heavy mountain snow and powerful winds move in, creating dangerous conditions through Wednesday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Reno, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 10 p.m. tonight through 4 p.m. Wednesday for the Greater Lake Tahoe Area, Mono County, and portions of Lassen, eastern Plumas, and eastern Sierra counties. Snow totals of 9 to 12 inches are expected above 7,000 feet around Tahoe, with locally higher amounts along the Sierra crest. Lake-level communities such as South Lake Tahoe, Tahoe City, Incline Village, and Stateline could see 1 to 3 inches, with isolated spots up to 6 inches.
Winds will be a major factor. Gusts up to 35 mph are expected at lake level, while Sierra ridge gusts could reach 70 mph. Those winds will create blowing snow, sharply reduced visibility, and the risk of falling tree branches. Wave heights on Lake Tahoe are expected to reach 1 to 3 feet, making conditions dangerous for small boats and paddle craft.
Mono County and Highway 395 corridors will see lighter valley snow but significant mountain impacts, with 10 to 12 inches above 7,000 feet. Higher passes and routes such as Interstate 80, U.S. 50, and Highway 89 are likely to see chain controls and delays during both Tuesday commutes.
Drivers are urged to avoid unnecessary travel, carry emergency supplies, and check 511 road conditions frequently. Snow and wind gradually ease late Wednesday, but lingering travel issues may continue in higher elevations.
