Flood advisory issued for western Carson City, Douglas County; High Wind Warning underway
Submitted by Jeff Munson on Wed, 02/13/2019 - 3:00pm
The National Weather Service in Reno issued a Flood Advisory on Wednesday afternoon for western Carson City, Douglas County, southern Washoe County and other areas of the region including South Lake Tahoe.
At 1:05 p.m. local law enforcement reported minor flooding in the Tahoe Basin, including the west and south shores due to heavy rain and significant amounts of snow blocking drainages. This includes Truckee, portions of Highway 89, and South Lake Tahoe.
The National Weather Service has reports of minor flooding in the Carson Valley as well. Low water crossings are also bringing water across roadways in many locations. The Flood Advisory is through 7 p.m. It also includes Alpine, Sierra and Nevada counties in northern California, El Dorado and Placer counties in central California.
Deep snow and cold temperatures preceding this event have formed ice and deep snow in many stream channels especially along the west shore of Lake Tahoe. The ice and snow may impact creek stage and flow measurements, according to the weather service.
It is expect that the ice and snow in the channel will be gradually melted as the streams rise, but it is possible that the snow and ice may restrict the channels with a rapid stream rise, and result in flooding impacts at lower than typical levels and in unexpected locations.
Additional heavy rainfall Wednesday afternoon may cause rises on smaller creeks and streams throughout the region with minor urban flooding possible. There will be a break in the precipitation intensity this evening, but additional heavy rainfall is likely tomorrow before snow levels once again fall.
Excessive runoff from heavy rainfall will cause flooding of small creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses as well as other drainage areas and low lying spots.
There is also a High Wind Warning for Carson City, Reno, Sparks, Carson Valley and Virginia City. Winds will increase later Wednesday into Thursday with areas of damaging winds expected, according to the weather service. The warning runs until 10 p.m. Thursday.
Winds will be from the south to southwest 20 to 35 mph with gusts up to 65 mph for the valleys. Stronger gusts to 70 mph possible on Thursday. Higher gusts to 90 mph possible for wind prone areas.
Hazardous travel is expected for high profile vehicles. Damage to trees and power lines is also possible along with minor structural damage.
City officials encourage residents to prepare as necessary, as weather conditions can rapidly change. Check nearby storm drains and remove any blockage if possible.
Self-filling sandbag locations are stocked with bags and sand; please bring your own shovel. Sand bag are at the following Carson City locations:
— Winnie Ln/Foothill Dr
— Fire Station 52, 2400 College Parkway
— Public Works Corporate Yard, 3505 Butti Way
— Ross Gold Park, 280 Appion Way
For storm drain assistance or concerns call Carson City Public Works at (775) 887-2355.
Please be safe and drive with caution. For more information and updates visit carson.org/alerts.
Meanwhile, Lyon and Douglas counties have also opened sand bag filling stations. Go here for Douglas County information and here for Lyon County sand bag station information.
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