Storm system to bring gusty winds and rain to valleys, snow in the Sierra
Another strong cold front will push through the Sierra and western Nevada region Thursday into Friday, bringing rain to the valleys and snow to Lake Tahoe, according to the National Weather Service. Ahead of the front gusty winds will develop with gusts up to 45 mph and locally higher in wind prone areas.
Hazardous boating conditions are expected across area lakes. Light rain and high elevation snow will develop over northeast California Thursday night and spread south through the Sierra on Friday, with the heaviest snow moving through the Tahoe basin during the day.
Combined with warm ground temperatures, accumulations should be limited to areas above 7,000 feet Friday in the Tahoe Basin. Travel restrictions are possible late Thursday night and early Friday morning, according to the weather service.
Travel impacts are possible into Friday morning. Across western Nevada rain and snow showers will be less widespread with snow levels falling to near 5000 feet by Friday night.
Because of uncertainties with the forecast, the exact amount of precipitation and timing could change before Friday morning, according to the weather service. High elevation snow advisories may be needed for Friday afternoon and evening, but have not been issued as of Wednesday afternoon.
Area anglers heading out early for camp spots in time for Saturday's opening day of stream and lake fishing in California and the Sierra should take note of the forecast and prepare for slow travel times over high elevations as the storm system moves through.