Reno, Nevada — Thunderstorms developing Saturday afternoon are expected to disrupt travel and outdoor activity across western Nevada and the eastern Sierra, with lightning, gusty winds and bursts of heavy rain arriving within hours.
Storms will begin forming near the Sierra by 12 p.m., reaching Reno, Carson City, Truckee and South Lake Tahoe between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., where wind gusts over 40 mph could down small branches and create sudden crosswinds on I-80 and US-395.
According to the National Weather Service in Reno, the strongest storms will continue through 10 p.m. Saturday, producing frequent lightning, brief heavy rain and small hail across northeast California and western Nevada.
Heavy rain may quickly pool on roads, especially in low-lying areas and underpasses in Reno and Carson City, reducing visibility and creating slick driving conditions within minutes of downpours. Small hail and pellet showers could also create sudden slippery surfaces on highways.
This is part of a broader system bringing instability and moisture into the տարածաշրջion, fueling scattered but intense afternoon and evening storms.
Outdoor recreation areas near Lake Tahoe and hiking routes in the eastern Sierra may become hazardous as lightning develops rapidly, while strong gusts can impact high-profile vehicles along exposed ճանապարհways.
Residents and travelers should move indoors when thunder is heard, avoid open areas, and delay travel during heavy downpours.
The greatest risk for lightning strikes and hazardous travel will occur between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Saturday, when storms peak across the region.
