Weekend storm to bring a few inches of snow to Carson City region, 2 to 5 feet in Sierra
A winter storm this weekend is expected to bring multiple feet of snow to the Sierra and rain with potential for a few inches of snow down to the Carson City area and lower valley floors, according to the National Weather Service.
The first of the arriving systems will happen Thursday night into Friday. This storm is considered fast moving and a weaker storm than what's ahead for the weekend. A few light showers may make it into western Nevada, but overall much of western Nevada will remain dry, forecasters said. Winds will become strong across Sierra ridge lines, with increased breezes into lower valleys.
For the first storm Thursday night into Friday, the weather service advises travel difficulties across Sierra passes are possible with up to 6 inches of snow accumulation along the Sierra crest passes.
The bigger storm is expected to arrive in the region Friday night and extend through late Sunday night. This one is expected to bring snow measured in feet in the Sierra and rain and snow showers in the lower valleys.
A Winter Storm Watch is in effect from Friday evening through late Sunday night for Lake Tahoe and the Sierra, bringing 2 to 4 feet of snow above 7,000 feet and up to 5 feet on the Sierra crest, according to the National Weather Service.
Travel across the Sierra is not recommended this weekend and may be impossible at times, NWS forecasters said. If you choose to do so, make sure to have proper supplies and plan for long delays. Winds will remain strong and gusty in the High Sierra with periods of stronger winds surfacing in valley locations.
Weekend storm in the lower valleys
Lower western Nevada valleys could see spillover rainfall Saturday as snow levels rise to near 5,000 feet. Periods of moderate to heavy rainfall during this timeframe could create some nuisance flooding for urban and poor drainage areas, according to National Weather Service forecasters.
Snow levels will then rapidly drop to all western Nevada valley floors by Sunday morning which will provide the best chances for a few inches snow accumulation and travel impacts across lower valleys.
See NVroads.com or call 511 for the latest road conditions.
Check back for updates.