Major Winter Storm Forecast to Slam Sierra Nevada, Western Nevada

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A major winter storm is forecast to bring heavy snowfall and dangerous conditions to the Sierra Nevada and western Nevada regions beginning Sunday night and lasting through midweek. Forecasters warn of prolonged, two-part storm system with snowfall rates potentially reaching 2-3 inches per hour at times, leading to significant accumulations of 3-5 feet above 7,000 feet and 2-3 feet in the Tahoe Basin and Mono County. Western Nevada valleys are also likely to see accumulating snow, especially during the Tuesday afternoon and evening commute.

Why it matters

This winter storm represents a significant shift in the weather pattern for the region, potentially opening the 'storm door' for continued precipitation through mid-February. The heavy snowfall and hazardous conditions could severely impact travel, commerce, and daily life across a wide swath of northern California and western Nevada.

The details

The storm is expected to arrive in northeast California on Sunday evening, with snow spreading southward overnight. Snow levels will start near 6,000 feet but fall below 5,000 feet by Monday evening. The first wave of the storm on Monday could bring 1-2 feet of snow to higher elevations around Lake Tahoe and the Sierra crest, with 5-10 inches at lake level and up to a foot in Mono County. A second, stronger wave arrives Tuesday, with snowfall rates potentially reaching 2-3 inches per hour and winds gusting up to 50 mph in communities and over 100 mph on ridgetops, leading to whiteout conditions. By early Wednesday, total snowfall could reach 3-5 feet above 7,000 feet, with 2-3 feet in the Tahoe Basin and Mono County.

• The storm is set to begin Sunday night, with conditions deteriorating quickly after sunset.
• The second, stronger wave of the storm is expected to arrive Tuesday and continue into Wednesday morning.
• Scattered snow showers are forecast to continue through Thursday.
• A break in storm activity may arrive Friday into next weekend, although another cold system could approach during the final week of February.

What’s next

Travelers planning to cross the Sierra are urged to do so by early Sunday afternoon to avoid the anticipated snow and strong winds. Major Sierra passes are expected to see chain controls and possible lengthy closures.