Forecasters at the National Weather Service office in Reno have issued a Winter Storm Watch for Sunday evening and Monday, warning that we might see significant snow here in the Honey Lake Valley and across Lassen and Plumas counties.
Heavy snow will be possible in Sunday night’s storm. Total snow accumulations of 3 to 8 inches are expected, with a foot or more possible above 7,000 feet.
Exposed Sierra ridge winds could gust to 100 mph or higher.
Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous conditions could impact the morning or evening commute. Very strong winds could cause extensive tree damage.
This is expected to be the first of a series of storms next week. Plan on difficult travel in and around the Sierra through much of next week with a bigger storm possible Tuesday night into Wednesday.
Now is the time to prepare an emergency kit for your home and car. If traveling consider alternate plans, remember to carry tire chains, extra food, water and clothing. Once the storm
arrives, travel may be difficult or impossible for an extended period of time.
Extensive Period of Stormy Weather Anticipated to Start 2021
A notable change to a more active weather pattern is forecast for the Sierra and western Nevada with multiple periods of strong winds, heavy mountain snow, along with valley rain and snow.
This will likely cause significant travel impacts in the Sierra next week.
A much wetter and windier pattern is expected to begin late in the weekend and last through much of next week as a series of Pacific storms with adequate moisture affects the Sierra and western Nevada. Showery precipitation is expected to begin Saturday through the weekend, with the best chances for strong storms with significant precipitation and wind looking to be Sunday night into Monday and again Wednesday into Thursday.
The latter storm is trending colder, which means increased chances for snow in western Nevada valleys.
