Winter storm warning in effect at Lake Tahoe; 5 feet of snow possible in high country
Ryan Hoffman / Tahoe Daily Tribune
Officials have increased potential snow totals for a series of winter storms this weekend at Lake Tahoe.
A winter storm warning issued by the National Weather Service in Reno remains in effect until 10 p.m. Sunday.
The storms could bring 14 to 28 inches of new snow. Above 7,000 feet could see 2 to 5 feet.
The highest snow totals are expected west of California Route 89. The heaviest snow is expected Saturday afternoon through Sunday morning.
Lake Tahoe area ski resorts reported several inches of new snow Saturday morning.
An avalanche warning from the Sierra Avalanche Center remains in effect until 7 a.m. Monday.
“Very dangerous avalanche conditions may occur. Travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended during HIGH avalanche danger. Large destructive avalanches could occur.”
Strong winds up to 50 mph are expected. Gusts over the Sierra ridges could be as strong as 110 mph.
The combination of snow and strong winds could complicate travel on Tahoe area roadways.
“Travel could be very difficult to impossible,” the weather service warns. “The hazardous conditions could impact the ski commute Friday evening and again Sunday evening. Very strong winds could cause extensive tree damage.”
