RENO, Nev. – The clear, calm start to this Veterans Day morning masks a dramatic weather shift on the horizon. The high desert air feels crisp, still, and dry — but by midweek, the atmosphere over western Nevada begins its early winter transition, with wind, rain, and even snow expected before the week is through.
The National Weather Service in Reno reports that Wednesday will stay mostly sunny and mild, reaching the upper 60s before a Pacific system slides into the Sierra by evening. Gusty south winds could reach 25 mph across the valleys, a clear signal of incoming change. By Wednesday night, light rain begins spreading east across the Sierra front, with a 40% chance of showers in Reno.
Thursday brings the main event. Expect a strong, moisture-laden system to arrive with steady rain and falling snow levels, dropping from near 8,300 feet early to about 7,200 feet by afternoon. Heavier bursts may mix with snow near Donner Summit and along I-80 west of Reno, potentially slicking high-elevation passes. Gusts near 40 mph will accompany the front, making travel challenging through the Sierra.
By Thursday night, colder air filters in — rain may briefly mix with snow near Reno’s foothills, though little accumulation is expected. Friday will turn cooler and partly cloudy, with highs struggling near 50°F before calmer, dry weather returns for the weekend.
For now, Reno’s calm skies are the pause before a November weather shakeup, one that marks the season’s first true Winter Tease — a reminder that snow season is just around the corner.
Five-Day Outlook for Reno, NV:
Wed: 69/46 – Breezy; mostly sunny.
Thu: 58/32 – Rain; chance snow late.
Fri: 50/31 – Cooler; partly sunny.
Sat: 56/34 – Mostly sunny.
Sun: 58/36 – Dry; light breeze.
