The National Weather Service in Reno has issued a blizzard warning for the greater Lake Tahoe area.
The warning goes into effect at 10 a.m. on Thursday and is set to run through 10 a.m. on Sunday.
According to the NWS, blizzard conditions are likely during this time, especially from Friday evening through Saturday morning.
Between two and five feet of snow are predicted for Lake Tahoe communities, with four to eight feet possible above 7,000 feet.
Wind gusts of up to 60 miles per hour are expected in lower elevations, while mountain ridges are predicted to see gusts above 110 miles per hour.
Blizzard warnings are also set to go into effect in Lassen, East Plumas and East Sierra counties at 4 a.m. Thursday. Those warnings will be in effect through 4 a.m. on Sunday.
Mono County also has a blizzard warning going into effect at 4 p.m. Thursday that is set to expire at 10 a.m. Sunday.
The wind and snow are expected to combine to create whiteout conditions and could also result in downed tree limbs and power lines, which could cause power outages.
Whiteout conditions could also make travel difficult or impossible, so people are advised to stay off the roads. If you must travel, bring a winter survival kit with you. If you do get stranded, stay in your car.
According to the National Weather Service, a winter survival kit should include the following things.
- Flashlight
- First Aid Kit
- Snow Shovel
- Ice Scraper with Brush
- Blankets/Sleeping Bags
- Non-Perishable Foods (Granola Bars, Dried Nuts, etc...)
- Bottled Water
- Booster Cables
- Extra Clothing
- Sand/Kitty Litter (Used for traction)
- Cell Phone and Charger
- Flares, Triangles and Other Bright Objects
