Weather Service issues Flood Watch for Carson City region due to arriving storm
Submitted by Jeff Munson on Wed, 11/15/2017 - 3:10pm
Along with a High Wind Warning issued earlier, a moderate to strong atmospheric river will bring significant precipitation to the region prompting the National Weather Service to issue a Flood Watch for Carson City, Carson Valley and much of Western Nevada.
This storm will be the first true test of the hydrologic system this season after the extreme conditions last season followed by a hot and dry summer and fall, according to the weather service. Creeks and streams in the mountains and foothills are expected to rise rapidly and minor flooding is possible tonight into Thursday.
Recent burn scars from the past few years will also bring a higher risk for flooding or possible debris flows. Mainstem rivers are also expected to rise significantly, but no flooding is currently forecast. The most significant rises on major rivers is expected on the Truckee River near Truckee, which has the potential to see minor flooding.
A High Wind Warning remains in effect until 4 a.m. Thursday due to the storm. Winds will be from the southwest 25 to 40 mph with gusts up to 70 mph with higher gusts in more wind prone areas, according to the weather service. A Red Flag Warning, issued earlier today has been canceled due to the arriving precipitation.
Elsewhere, a Winter Storm Warning in in effect until 4 a.m. Friday for Lake Tahoe and the Sierra above 7,000 feet. Heavy wet snow and high winds expected. Motorists can expect difficult travel conditions during the storm, with snow accumulations of 2 to 4 feet possible above 8,000 feet and localized amounts of 5 feet along the Sierra Crest.
Accumulations below 7,500 feet are more uncertain and depend on how fast snow levels fall Thursday, but 4 or more inches are possible, according to the weather service.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
