RENO, Nev. – The high desert is stirring early this Saturday morning as the first major Pacific system of late October sweeps across northern Nevada. Palm-sized leaves tumble across I-580 in steady gusts, while mountain clouds thicken—early hints of the Sierra’s first measurable snow.
The National Weather Service in Reno has issued a Wind Advisory through Sunday evening. Southwest gusts may reach 40 mph in the valleys and 50 mph over exposed ridges, making travel challenging along I-580, U.S. 395, and Highway 50. Drivers of high-profile vehicles should use caution, particularly through Washoe Valley where crosswinds can peak this afternoon.
Rain chances increase today with scattered showers, mainly from midday through late afternoon. Snow levels hover near 7,500 feet, rising slightly by evening—light accumulations are possible on higher passes like Mount Rose Summit and Donner. Temperatures remain mild, topping out near 61°F before dipping into the low 40s tonight.
Sunday brings another round of breezy showers before skies clear quickly by Monday. Highs rebound to the low 60s under abundant sunshine, setting up a calm and mild stretch through midweek.
For now, Reno’s weather stays seasonably cool and windy—but models hint at a colder air mass arriving by next weekend, possibly the valley’s first frost risk as November begins.
A chilly November ahead seems to be taking shape for the high desert.
Five-Day Outlook for Reno, NV:
Sat: 61/41 – Windy, chance of rain.
Sun: 56/36 – Breezy, scattered showers.
Mon: 63/38 – Sunny, light wind.
Tue: 67/42 – Sunny and dry.
Wed: 70/42 – Clear, calm, warming trend.
