Reno, Nev. – Snowfall returns to the Sierra late Friday, with up to 12 inches expected at the highest elevations around Lake Tahoe and Mammoth Lakes, making for dangerous travel through Sunday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Reno, a Winter Weather Advisory will go into effect from 5 p.m. Friday through 11 a.m. Sunday across the Greater Lake Tahoe Area, Mono County, and parts of Mineral and Southern Lyon Counties. Snow accumulations of 3 to 6 inches are expected above 7,000 feet, with localized totals near a foot at high peaks. Ridge winds may gust up to 60 mph, creating low visibility and blowing snow.
Communities including Tahoe City, Truckee, South Lake Tahoe, and Incline Village may see 1 to 3 inches at lake level, while areas along Highway 395, including Mammoth Lakes, Bridgeport, and Lee Vining, will face slick roads and intermittent heavy snow. In southern Nevada, towns like Hawthorne, Yerington, and Schurz could see travel disruptions above 5,000 feet, particularly along Highways 359, 338, and 6.
Drivers should avoid non-essential travel during the Friday evening commute and Saturday morning. Keep emergency kits in vehicles, and use chains where required.
More snow showers are possible through Sunday morning. Additional advisories could be issued if conditions worsen.
