Forecasters at the National Weather Service office in Reno are warning residents to prepare for another round of severe thunderstorms today, as a low pressure system, heat and instability combine to create the perfect conditions to trigger storms.
Plan for thunderstorms to develop this afternoon and evening, especially in western and northwestern Nevada and extreme northeast California.
While any thunderstorm could bring heavy rain, small hail, occasional lightning, and wind gusts up to 50mph, some of today’s thunderstorms could become severe with torrential rain, frequent cloud-to-ground lightning, hail of more than an inch in diameter and damaging wind gusts over 60 mph.
Stronger storms will bring the threat for flash flooding, especially on and downstream from burn areas, and in steep, less vegetated terrain.
If you have outdoor plans be sure to have a way of receiving weather alerts and reaching sturdy shelter quickly.
RED FLAG WARNING
The Red Flag Warning has been extended through Wednesday evening, including potential for nocturnal thunderstorms.
Isolated to scattered thunderstorms are expected throughout the day. Storms will be a hybrid mix of wet and dry.
“However,” forecasters explain, “with recent unusually low humidity, vegetation could be extra receptive to new lightning caused fire starts.”
Areas near thunderstorm cores will see gusty outflow winds of up to 60mph this afternoon.
Lightning can create new fire starts and may combine with strong outflow winds to cause a fire to rapidly grow in size and intensity before first responders can contain them.
Avoid outdoor activities that can cause a spark near dry vegetation, such as yard work, target shooting, or campfires.
Follow local fire restrictions. Check weather.gov/reno for updates and livingwithfire.info for preparedness tips.
