South Lake Tahoe, CA – Light but disruptive Sierra snow is expected to develop late tonight, with hazardous travel conditions likely across high elevations surrounding the Lake Tahoe basin through Friday morning.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Reno, a Winter Weather Advisory is now in effect from 10 p.m. Thursday to noon Friday for elevations above 8,000 feet across the Greater Lake Tahoe Area, including Incline Village, Tahoe City, South Lake Tahoe, Truckee, Markleeville, Stateline, and Glenbrook.
Forecasters expect up to 4 inches of wet snow above 8,000 feet, with up to 2 inches possible between 7,500 and 8,000 feet. While accumulations remain on the lighter side compared to higher Sierra zones, roadways could still become slick during the early morning hours.
Winds will be an additional concern. According to NWS meteorologists, south winds of 10 to 15 mph will gust to 25 mph in valley areas, while the highest peaks could see gusts reaching 60 mph before 4 a.m. Conditions on Lake Tahoe may also become choppy, with waves up to 2 feet and gusts near 25 mph.
The advisory period includes the Friday morning commute, and officials warn that drivers should anticipate slow travel, especially on mountain passes and shaded road segments. Downed limbs and minor power line issues are also possible due to wind gusts.
NWS urges travelers to slow down and check updated road conditions by calling 511 before heading out.
