Forecasters at the National Weather Service office in Reno are warning that, despite today’s expected warm weather, a very cold winter system will arrive late tonight to remind us that we are still in the middle of winter.
West to northwest winds will increase this afternoon, shifting out of the north Tuesday. Gusts of 35 to 45mph are expected region-wide, with stronger gusts in higher elevations and wind-prone locations. This will bring rough conditions on area lakes.
Snow showers will develop overnight into Tuesday, primarily for areas near and south of I-80 both in the Sierra and western Nevada. A secondary round of snow will develop in the Sierra and here in northeast California Tuesday and Tuesday evening.
While overall totals will be light, generally a dusting up to three inches, it doesn’t take much to cause travel difficulties.
Tuesday will be a harsh shock to the system. High temperatures will remain in the 30s Tuesday and Wednesday in even the warmest of valleys, with teens and 20s in the mountains. Widespread teen and single digit lows can be expected, with colder valleys dipping below zero.
To add insult to injury, the addition of wind will make it feel even colder, especially Monday night and Tuesday. Wind chill values will easily be in the single digit to below zero range at times.
Bundle up Tuesday and Wednesday and be sure to protect vulnerable populations as well as pets.
