Reno, NV – A powerful winter storm continues to slam the Nevada-California border region Tuesday, bringing heavy snow, intense winds, and dangerous travel conditions through 11 p.m. across high-elevation communities.
According to the National Weather Service in Reno, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for the Greater Lake Tahoe Area and the Lassen-Eastern Plumas-Eastern Sierra counties. Snowfall totals are expected to reach 8 to 16 inches above 6,500 feet, with the highest elevations possibly seeing up to 2 feet. Lower elevations could still see between 5 and 12 inches, with whiteout conditions possible due to wind gusts as high as 70 mph on ridges and 40 mph over Lake Tahoe, generating 2- to 3-foot waves.
The warning impacts cities including South Lake Tahoe, Truckee, Markleeville, Susanville, and Portola. Hazardous road conditions are expected throughout the day, particularly along U.S. Highway 395 and mountain passes. Morning and evening commutes may be severely affected, and Caltrans is advising motorists to delay travel if possible.
Officials urge residents to prepare emergency kits with food, water, and flashlights in case of vehicle breakdowns or power outages. For current road updates, travelers should dial 511 or visit local transportation websites.
