RENO, Nev. – A cool hush blankets the Truckee Meadows this morning, but change is building along the Sierra’s western slope. By Thursday, Reno’s blue skies will give way to gathering clouds, scattered rain showers, and the season’s first notable snow chance in nearby mountain passes — a reminder that winter is creeping closer.
According to the National Weather Service in Reno, a weak system moves in Thursday afternoon, bringing rain chances up to 60 percent across the valleys and light snow above 7,500 feet. Winds will increase slightly through the day, with gusts near 25 mph possible east of the Sierra. Highs will hold near 63°F before temperatures start to slide.
By Thursday night into Friday, colder air filters into the region as snow levels drop near 7,000 feet early, falling to 6,300 feet by dawn Friday. Travelers along I-80 through Donner Pass and Mount Rose Highway should expect slushy roads and reduced visibility, particularly Friday morning. In Reno, showers may linger into midday before skies begin to clear.
Friday’s highs dip to the mid-50s, with clouds and breezes holding firm through the evening. Saturday looks calmer, mostly sunny and near 59°F, giving residents a chance to dry out and clear gutters before the next front late Sunday brings another chance for rain and high-elevation snow.
Models hint that Thanksgiving week could trend colder, with a potential winter storm setup over the West — still days away but worth watching as the season’s first true snowmaker approaches.
Five-Day Outlook for Reno, NV:
Thu: 63/37 – Clouds build; rain late.
Fri: 56/36 – Rain early; snow above 6,500 ft.
Sat: 59/38 – Mostly sunny; cool breeze.
Sun: 57/37 – Clouds return; rain chance late.
Mon: 48/28 – Cooler; snow possible in foothills.
