RENO, Nev. – A clear, cold sky greets early risers across the Truckee Meadows this Tuesday morning. Streetlights glint off frost-tipped roofs, and the air feels crisp but calm — a rare moment of stillness before a big seasonal shift. This week’s Nevada weather pattern starts mild and dry, but signs of a wet, colder weekend are already forming over the Pacific.
According to the National Weather Service in Reno, Tuesday brings sunny skies and highs near 73°F, perfect for last-minute outdoor projects or high-desert drives. Light winds and dry air linger through Wednesday, but increasing clouds hint that change is brewing. By late Thursday, temperatures dip slightly, and by Friday night, showers begin to edge into western Nevada and the Sierra foothills.
Rain chances rise through Saturday and Sunday, with snow levels expected to drop from near 8,300 feet to around 6,700 feet — low enough to dust the higher mountain passes near I-80 and Mount Rose. Forecasters note that early Sunday could bring a mix of rain and snow, especially above 6,000 feet, marking the region’s first hint of early winter weather.
Travelers should monitor conditions late Friday through Sunday, particularly those heading toward Tahoe or crossing Donner Summit. Wet roads and cooler air may make for slower travel and slick conditions in the early hours.
After a stretch of dry, golden October weather, Reno is on the verge of its first real transition to winter, with a reminder that the calm between storms never lasts long in the high desert.
Five-Day Outlook for Reno, NV:
Tue: 73/40 – Sunny, calm.
Wed: 68/42 – Clouds increase; cooler.
Thu: 71/43 – Mostly sunny.
Fri: 73/46 – Partly sunny, rain late.
Sat: 60/41 – Rain; snow 7,200 ft and above.
