The National Weather Service in Reno has issued a special weather bulletin warning that a series of Pacific winter storms will bring periods of stormy weather to much of California and Nevada this week. There will be few, if any, meaningful breaks in the weather for the Sierra once the storms begin later today, so plan ahead.
Areas of the Sierra above 6500 feet can plan on periods of significant snowfall starting late Tuesday and continuing through the holiday weekend. Significant snowpack buildup probable and major travel delays are likely. Snow will begin today, but Thursday and the weekend will be more intense snowfall rates with the worst travel conditions.
Here in the Honey Lake Valley the heaviest precipitation rates will occur on Thursday and this weekend. Snow levels will fluctuate between 5,000 to 6,000 feet Wednesday and Thursday with snow levels forecast to drop to all valley floors by Friday morning.
The lowest valleys, below 4,500 feet may remain a rain and snow mix, but plan on a breezy, wet and snowy mess on roads throughout the region.
A Winter Weather Advisory begins this evening for areas above 5,000 feet, with snow expected. Total snow accumulations of 2 to 4 inches, except 4 to 8 inches west of highway 395 are predicted.
Local snowfall totals of up to a foot are possible above 5,500 feet south and west of Susanville. Here in the valley, below 5,000 feet, up to two inches is possible.
Travel could be slow through Wednesday before becoming very difficult to impossible through the remainder of the holiday weekend. There may be a break in heavier snow late Thursday night and Friday.
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 major storm
arrives Wednesday night, travel may be difficult or impossible for an extended period of time.
The latest road conditions can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.