Las Vegas, NV – Drivers heading into the Spring Mountains should prepare now as heavy snow begins by 10 a.m. Thursday, with more than a foot possible at higher elevations and hazardous travel lasting until 4 a.m. Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Las Vegas, a Winter Storm Warning is in effect for the Spring Mountains and Red Rock Canyon. Snow totals will vary sharply by elevation, with accumulations exceeding 12 inches above 8,000 feet, 6 to 12 inches above 7,000 feet, 4 to 8 inches above 6,000 feet and 1 to 4 inches above 5,000 feet. Wind gusts could reach 40 mph, creating blowing snow and reduced visibility.
State Routes 156, 157 and 158 near Mt. Charleston may become very difficult to impassable at times. State Route 160 through Mountain Springs could also see dangerous conditions, while State Route 159 along the Red Rock Scenic Loop may pick up 1 to 2 inches on the roadway.
Snow-covered pavement and drifting could make travel treacherous, especially Thursday afternoon into the evening. Officials urge motorists to delay mountain travel and check Nevada 511 for updates before heading out.
Conditions should gradually improve before sunrise Friday, but icy stretches may linger at higher elevations.
