Reno, Nevada – Backcountry travel near the Sierra crest could turn life-threatening within hours as high avalanche danger threatens areas surrounding major mountain corridors through 5 a.m. Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Reno and the Sierra Avalanche Center, a Backcountry Avalanche Warning remains in effect for the Greater Lake Tahoe area through 5 a.m. Friday. The risk level is rated 4 out of 5, signaling high danger. Heavy snow combined with gusty winds and a weak underlying snowpack has created unstable conditions capable of producing large natural avalanches.
The most dangerous terrain includes steep slopes near Mount Rose Highway, Interstate 80 over Donner Pass, and higher elevations west of U.S. 395. Avalanche activity could occur naturally, but human-triggered slides large enough to bury or seriously injure people are considered very likely. Blowing snow may also reduce visibility along exposed stretches of I-80 and SR-431.
Emergency officials strongly advise against traveling in avalanche terrain. Even experienced backcountry users face significant risk under a 4/5 rating. Downed trees and debris could block access roads near Lake Tahoe communities and remote trailheads.
Anyone planning to travel through mountain passes overnight should monitor road conditions through NDOT and check for closures before departure. Conditions are expected to remain unstable through early Friday morning, and additional warnings may be issued if heavy snowfall continues.
