RENO, Nev. – The air is crisp and still across the Truckee Meadows early Thursday, but change is brewing along the Sierra crest. A powerful Pacific system is set to arrive by late Friday, bringing gusty winds, scattered rain, and the first signs of Sierra snow—a clear reminder that fall’s grip is slipping toward winter.
According to the National Weather Service in Reno, Thursday will stay bright and mild, with highs near 70°F and calm winds. By Friday afternoon, southerly winds will strengthen to 25–35 mph, with gusts up to 45 mph possible along I-80 and in open valleys. Mountain passes could see reduced visibility from blowing dust ahead of the approaching front.
Rain chances rise Saturday morning as the cold front moves across northern Nevada. Light valley rain and high-elevation snow are both expected, with snow levels starting near 8,000 feet before dropping closer to 6,500 feet by nightfall. The heaviest precipitation will fall along the Sierra crest, where an inch or two of early snow could coat Donner Summit and Mount Rose.
Travelers heading toward Lake Tahoe or the Reno–Truckee corridor should plan for slick roads and brief travel delays. The wind will also make for a rough day on Pyramid Lake and Washoe Lake, where choppy waves could affect small boats.
By Sunday, the storm clears but leaves a cooler, breezy pattern in its wake. Sunshine returns Monday, though highs will stay in the 60s—just right for early Halloween decorating or a crisp fall hike before winter’s next push.
Five-Day Forecast for Reno, NV:
Thu: 70/42 – Sunny, calm; pleasant fall day.
Fri: 74/46 – Increasing clouds; gusty winds late.
Sat: 60/40 – Rain and mountain snow; windy.
Sun: 56/41 – Chance rain early; clearing later.
Mon: 62/42 – Mostly sunny; cool breeze.
