Winter storm prompts closures, warnings and chain controls across Nevada & California
RENO, Nev. (News 4 & Fox 11) — Snow continues across the region this morning, but will continue to decrease in intensity, with most activity ending by the end of the day. Quieter weather will arrive this weekend with only some light snow in the Sierra. One concern for Friday night into Saturday morning is the development of freezing fog region-wide.
Avalanche Warning
An avalanche warning has been issued through 10 a.m. Friday for the Greater Lake Tahoe area.
Multiple feet of new snowfall with gale-force winds are expected over this period. This new swill is loading a shallow and generally weak snowpack.
Large and destructive avalanches involving the new snow and the existing snowpack could occur.
Impacts
- Very dangerous travel conditions possible early Wednesday and again Wednesday night into Thursday morning
- Be prepared for winter driving conditions over the next several days
- Once the storm arrives early Wednesday morning, travel may be difficult for an extended period of time
- If you risk travel over the Sierra passes, authorities say you cloud be stuck in your car for several hours, if not a day.
Chain Controls
Advisory: CHP is warning motorists to expect heavy traffic and long delays on Saturday on I-80, U.S. 50, SR-267, SR-28, and SR-89.
- Spooner Summit/U.S 50: From Douglas County to Glenbrook.
Road Closures:
- U.S. 395 south of Gardnerville is closed at the Nevada state line. Detour to SR-208 Wellington.
- S.R. 88 from mile post 70.7 in Amador County to mile post 1.2 in Alpine County in California.
Be Prepared
- Leave enough time to safely reach your destination and plan your route to avoid snowy/icy areas and steep hills
- Check weather and road conditions by calling 511 in Nevada
- Wear weather-appropriate clothing
- Maintain your car: check your battery, tire tread, windshield wipers, levels of no-freeze fluid in the washer reservoir and your antifreeze
- Maintain a high fuel level in your gas tank—for EV drivers, plan your charging stations ahead of time
- Keep a basic winter travel kit in the car: pre-charged portable cell phone charger, chains, a flashlight, jumper cables, shovel, snowbrush, ice scraper, water, road flares and a blanket
- If you get stuck in the snow, leave a window slightly cracked for ventilation, and make sure the vehicle exhaust system is clear of snow
