Lake Tahoe under high wind warning, damaging winds expected tonight

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE — An intense cold front will move rapidly through the Tahoe region tonight into early Saturday morning bringing the potential for damaging winds, according to the National Weather Service in Reno.

Strong downslope winds of “well in excess” of 100 mph might occur. A high wind warning begins at 7 tonight and ends at 7 tomorrow morning. Residents are advised to tie down lawn furniture and bring their pets indoors.

Meanwhile, the weather service reports the Sierra could fetch 1 to 2 feet of snow between Saturday and Wednesday. Daytime temperatures will likely hover in the 20s with nighttime lows in the single digits.

“We will see decent snowfall accumulations, but what you’re not going to see is a classic Sierra storm where you get hammered for a day and then it clears out,” said Scott McGuire, meteorologist for the Weather Service. “This storm is not that type of scenario. It will be a prolonged event through Wednesday.”

Travelers, especially those in high-profile vehicles, will be impacted by strong winds tonight and early tomorrow. This includes Interstate 80 and highways 50 and 89.

Kirkwood Mountain Resort plans to open this weekend; the resort’s Web site said a Sunday opening is likely and a Saturday opening is possible. Check kirkwood.com for information.

With a dramatic drop in temperatures expected, the El Dorado County Public Health Department advises residents to protect themselves and pets from the cold.

Tips to stay healthy and safe during cold weather:

— Wear several layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing rather than one layer of heavy clothing. The outer garments should be tightly woven and water-repellent.

— Wear a hat and mittens, and cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs.

— Avoid heavy exertion in the cold; cold weather can put added strain on the heart. If you must work outdoors, dress warmly and work slowly.

— Have extra blankets on hand.

— Move pets indoors or to an enclosure out of the elements. Likewise, protect livestock or other large animals from the cold weather.

— Do not bring outdoor heating devices into the home (e.g. barbecues and other cooking equipment) because they can produce deadly carbon monoxide.

— Insulate pipes and allow faucets to drip slowly during cold weather to avoid freezing; learn how to shut off water valves (in case a pipe bursts).

— Be cautious when traveling; check road conditions before traveling, and let others know of your route and estimated time of arrival. Keep extra blankets, food and water in your vehicle.