Winter storm warning weather: Sierra could get up to 8 feet of snow; Reno braces for rain then snow
Forecasters warn a potent winter system will move into the Sierra late Sunday, Feb. 15 ET, bringing heavy snow, strong winds and hazardous travel from Sunday night into Wednesday, Feb. 18 ET. Mountain communities and travelers should prepare for deep snow on the crest and difficult conditions across the Tahoe Basin and into the Reno area.
Storm timing and expected totals
Snow is forecast to begin Sunday evening, Feb. 15 ET, with the most intense precipitation arriving Monday afternoon, Feb. 16 ET, and continuing through Tuesday, Feb. 17 ET. Watches in place cover much of the Sierra from 10 p. m. Sunday, Feb. 15 ET through 10 p. m. Wednesday, Feb. 18 ET.
At high elevations along the Sierra crest—especially around Donner Pass—forecasts indicate 4 to 8 feet of snow is possible by Wednesday. The Tahoe Basin could see 18 to 30 inches at lake level, with the highest amounts along the West Shore and parts of Alpine County. Broader Sierra totals are expected to be in the 2 to 5 foot range in many places.
Wind will compound the impacts: valley gusts may reach 35 to 45 mph, ridge gusts 45 to 55 mph and higher on exposed summits. Some ridges could experience gusts exceeding 100 mph, increasing the risk of whiteout conditions and deep drifting.
Travel, power and safety impacts
Interstate 80 over Donner Pass and routes along the west slope of the Northern Sierra are expected to bear the brunt of the storm. Chain controls are likely, and road closures are possible during peak snowfall. Drivers planning travel across the Sierra for Presidents Day weekend are urged to complete trips before Sunday evening, Feb. 15 ET if possible.
Heavy snowfall rates combined with strong winds could make travel very difficult to impossible at times, with whiteouts reducing visibility to near zero. Winds strong enough to down trees and power lines are possible, raising the prospect of outages for mountain communities and valley towns alike.
In western Nevada, Reno will likely begin the event with rain before colder air moves in early next week. Snow could reach the valley floor by Monday night, Feb. 16 ET, and there is a 25% to 60% chance of at least 2 inches of accumulation in the Reno–Carson area. Foothill communities and higher elevation towns such as Virginia City have a much higher likelihood of measurable snow and slick roads.
Preparedness tips for residents and visitors
Officials urge residents and visitors to monitor forecasts and consider delaying nonessential travel while the storm moves through. Motorists should carry chains or traction devices, have a full tank of fuel, and pack warm clothing, food, water and a charged phone in case of delays or road closures.
Those living in areas prone to power loss should prepare a winter kit with flashlights, extra batteries, medication, and supplies to stay warm if heaters fail. Property owners should ensure generators are used safely and that vents and exhausts remain clear of snow and ice.
Recreationists should be especially cautious: avalanche risk will increase with heavy new snow and strong winds. Check local avalanche advisories before heading into the backcountry and consider postponing trips until conditions stabilize.
The combination of deep mountain snow, strong winds and the potential for rain-then-snow in valley locations makes this storm a significant winter hazard. Communities and travelers across the Sierra and into Nevada should plan accordingly and stay alert to changing conditions through Wednesday, Feb. 18 ET.
