Forecasters at the National Weather Service office in Reno have issued a Winter Storm Warning for Lassen County, along with eastern Plumas, eastern Sierra, Sierraville, Westwood, Loyalton, Portola and Susanville.
Heavy snow is forecast, beginning tonight, with snow accumulations of 2 to 8 inches here in the Honey Lake Valley below 4,500 feet, one to two feet between 4,500 and 6,500 feet, and up to 3 feet above 6,500 feet.
Winds will be gusting as high as 55mph along Sierra ridges, with gusts in valleys as high as 45mph.
The Winter Storm Warning is in effect from 10:00 this evening until 10:00a.m. Monday.
Travel could be very difficult to impossible at times during the storm, with snowfall rates up to 2 inches per hour possible. Roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, will become slick and hazardous.
Whiteout conditions are expected and will make travel treacherous and potentially life-threatening. The hazardous conditions will impact the Monday morning commute. Strong winds could cause extensive damage to trees and power lines.
Snow will begin early Sunday morning along western leeside foothills of the Sierra. Snow will continue to intensify through the day Sunday, with snow levels rising to 5,000
feet in the evening.
If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.
Persons should consider delaying all travel. If travel is absolutely necessary, drive with extreme caution. Consider taking a winter storm kit along with you, including such items as tire chains, booster cables, flashlight, shovel, blankets and extra clothing.
Also take water, a first aid kit, and anything else that would help you survive in case you become stranded.
Do not touch downed lines and report any power outages to your electric company. Travel is highly discouraged due to slick roadways and the possibility of downed trees and power lines.
