Reno, NV – Nevada is preparing for a highly variable winter pattern from December 18–24, with NOAA’s long-range outlook showing above-normal precipitation across northern and western Nevada and temperatures hovering near normal statewide. This setup supports heavy Sierra snow, valley snow and mix, and rain with occasional ice in central and eastern regions heading into Christmas Eve.
According to NOAA, western Nevada, including Reno, Sparks, Carson City, and the Tahoe Basin, will see significant snow in higher elevations and a rain–snow mix in valleys. From December 19–23, multiple systems may bring heavy Sierra snowfall, impacting Mount Rose Summit, Donner Pass (nearby in CA), Spooner Summit, and Kingsbury Grade with chain controls and reduced visibility.
Northern Nevada—including Elko, Winnemucca, Battle Mountain, and Wells—sits in a colder zone where snow is the primary precipitation type. Light to moderate accumulations are likely between December 20–23, with blowing snow and reduced visibility possible along I-80 and U.S. 93.
Central Nevada—including Eureka, Austin, Ely, and Tonopah—will experience a mix of snow and freezing drizzle, especially during overnight hours from December 19–21 when temperatures hover near freezing. Even light glaze may cause slick rural highways and elevated road surfaces.
Far southern Nevada—including Las Vegas, Henderson, Pahrump, and Laughlin—leans warmer but will see periods of rain, breezy conditions, and cooler temperatures. Higher terrain near Red Rock Canyon and the Spring Mountains may see snow late in the week as colder air pushes in.
Major travel routes—including I-80, I-580, U.S. 95, U.S. 50, and U.S. 93—may experience slick roads, ice patches, snow-packed mountain passes, and delays, especially from December 21 through Christmas Eve.
