Las Vegas, NV – A major winter storm is set to hit mountain areas across eastern California and southern Nevada beginning Monday, bringing heavy snowfall and hazardous travel conditions through Tuesday night and into early Wednesday.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Las Vegas, Winter Storm Warnings have been issued for the Eastern Sierra Slopes, White Mountains of Inyo County, Esmeralda and Central Nye County, as well as the Sheep Range and Spring Mountains near Las Vegas. Snow is expected to begin as early as 10 a.m. Monday in California and later Monday afternoon and night across Nevada.
Snow totals vary by elevation. The Eastern Sierra Slopes and White Mountains could see 2 to 5 inches above 6,000 feet, 5 to 10 inches above 8,000 feet and up to 12 inches above 9,500 feet. In Esmeralda and Central Nye County, totals range from 1 to 3 inches above 6,000 feet and up to 15 inches above 8,000 feet.
The heaviest snowfall is forecast for the Spring Mountains and Red Rock Canyon region, where accumulations may reach 16 to 24 inches above 9,000 feet between Monday night and early Wednesday.
Travel will be hazardous, especially along State Routes 168, Westgard Pass, SR 266 through Lida Summit, and SR 156, 157 and 158 near Mt. Charleston. Drivers are urged to carry emergency supplies and check road conditions by calling 511 or 1-800-427-7623 in California.
