Reno, NV – An early-season winter blast is set to blanket the Sierra Nevada with up to three feet of snow beginning Columbus Day, as a strong Pacific storm moves into California and western Nevada.
According to the National Weather Service’s Weather Prediction Center, the system will bring valley rain and heavy mountain snow from Monday, October 13, through Wednesday, October 15. Forecasters expect the heaviest snowfall—ranging from one to three feet or more—along the Sierra crest, impacting key travel routes including Interstate 80 and U.S. Highway 50.
“Hazardous driving conditions are possible at some mountain passes,” the Weather Prediction Center said Sunday, urging travelers to prepare for potential closures and icy roads. Snow levels are expected to drop near 7,000 feet, with blizzard-like conditions possible in higher elevations around Lake Tahoe and Donner Summit.
The storm arrives unusually early for mid-October, signaling a sharp shift into winter weather for the western U.S. Travelers and residents are advised to monitor local forecasts and carry emergency gear if heading into the mountains.
