South Lake Tahoe, CA – A powerful late-season storm will begin impacting the Sierra early Tuesday, bringing heavy snow and damaging winds that could shut down travel through Wednesday evening.
According to the National Weather Service, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 5 a.m. Tuesday to 5 p.m. Wednesday for the Greater Lake Tahoe area and Mono County. Snow totals of 4 to 10 inches are expected above 6,500 feet, with 12 to 18 inches along the highest peaks. Lower elevations, including lake level, could see 1 to 4 inches, with up to 5 inches along Highway 395 in Mono County.
Communities including South Lake Tahoe, Truckee, Tahoe City, Mammoth Lakes, and Bridgeport will face the most significant impacts. Major routes such as Interstate 80 over Donner Pass, US-50, and US-395 will likely see chain controls, reduced visibility, and snow-covered conditions, especially late Tuesday morning through Tuesday afternoon when snowfall rates peak.
Winds will intensify alongside the снег, with gusts of 30 to 50 mph at lower elevations and up to 90 mph along ridgelines. On Lake Tahoe, wave heights may reach 1 to 3 feet, creating hazardous conditions for boaters. Strong winds could down trees and power lines, leading to isolated outages.
Drivers are urged to delay travel if possible and check 511 for real-time road conditions. Carry emergency supplies if travel is necessary.
Conditions begin improving late Wednesday, but additional impacts may persist if heavier snow bands develop or winds remain strong.
