South Lake Tahoe, California – The Sierra Nevada may see brief winter weather signals late next week, but current guidance supports only a limited chance for snow, with no strong indication of a major or high-impact mountain storm during this period.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, the Sierra Nevada sits within a broader cool pattern from Saturday through the following Friday. While weak systems may brush the region, colder air and deep moisture are not expected to align in a way that would support significant snowfall at this time.
At higher elevations near Truckee and Donner Pass, occasional light snow is possible, especially during overnight periods. Any accumulation currently looks modest, though brief slick conditions could develop along Interstate 80 and Highway 89 if snow coincides with colder temperatures.
Around Lake Tahoe and into the central Sierra near South Lake Tahoe and Mammoth Lakes, temperatures will be cold enough for snow at times, but precipitation coverage appears limited. Snowfall, if it occurs, is expected to be light and intermittent rather than sustained.
Caltrans and local transportation agencies advise travelers to remain weather-aware when crossing mountain passes, as even light snow can impact travel in the Sierra. While significant winter impacts are not anticipated, updates may follow if colder air or storm strength increases later next week.
