The burn code season runs from November 1st through the end of February, and this year we had all green days, which is the best burn code season we’ve had since Washoe County started the program back in 1987. The weather plays a big role in what type of burn code they issue, because when conditions are right all of the pollution and haze can get trapped in the valley. When the weather is stormy with rain and wind it usually keeps our air clean and healthy.
However, when an inversion sets up with warm air above cold air, the air has a hard time flowing freely and is therefore not as clean. Not only have we had lots of storms this year but on days when it was quiet we did not have any super strong inversions, which kept our air healthier. What’s interesting is that a couple years ago when we had an epic winter season with lots of precipitation the air quality wasn’t even as good as this year.
This burn code season, we’ve had 29 days with measurable precipitation out the Reno Airport and a couple years ago we had 32 days. It’s not only rain that clears the air but also the wind. The community also plays a role in keeping our air clean by abiding by the burn code rules and not burning on yellow or red code days.
With the burn code season ending spring is right around the corner but that doesn’t mean we can’t see any more snow. It’s been an impressive few months with many resorts reporting over thirty feet of snow.
A few snow showers are possible over the weekend, but it does not look to be too huge of a system moving through the next couple of days. While a few light snow shows are possible in the valley Thursday night, accumulations will be hard to come by. Areas east of 395 do have a chance of seeing a few inches though with a Winter Weather Advisory posted for the central and eastern portion of Nevada through 1 p.m. Friday.
If you’re tired of snow and ready for spring, the official start of spring is in about two weeks. We’re also seeing a later sunset time with a current sunset of around 6 p.m. and by March 15th it will be 7:22 p.m. Come June 30th the sun won’t set until 8:30 p.m. Along with daylight saving time in March we also spring forward and loose an hour of sleep this coming Sunday, so make sure to change your clocks and go to bed early. Have a great weekend.
