Flash Flood Watch and Wind Advisory in Effect Through Sunday

The National Weather Service has issued an overnight flash flood watch in addition to an overnight wind advisory for northern Nevada.

The flash flood watch was issued for the Lake Tahoe, Reno, Carson City and Minden Areas. It is in effect from 5 p.m. Saturday evening through late Sunday night.

The flash flood watch was issued due to the burn scars from the Emerald Fire near Lake Tahoe and the Little Valley Fire near Washoe Valley.

Another band of heavy rain expected late Saturday night through Sunday morning. Rainfall rates may exceed one inch within three hours on the burn scars which could trigger debris flows and rock falls. These rock falls and debris flows may affect area homes and highways, including CA 89 and Franktown Road. Rock falls have already been reported across Highway 89 near the Emerald Fire.

After a break Sunday morning, more heavy rain is expected Sunday afternoon through Sunday night.

Motorists should watch for debris in roadways and avoid crossing where water and mud are flowing across the road.

A wind advisory has been issued from 11 p.m. Saturday to 8 a.m. Sunday for the northern area of Washoe County. 

Locations include the cities of Cedarville, Fort Bidwell, Portola, Susanville, and Gerlach.

Timing: Winds will continue into the evening with the strongest gusts through 8 pm. Gusty winds will continue tonight into Sunday.

Winds: This afternoon and evening Southwest winds 25 to 40 mph with gusts up to 60 mph.

Winds late tonight through Sunday: Southwest 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 50 mph. locally stronger gusts near 60 mph in wind prone areas such as the Surprise Valley and US 395 near Honey Lake.

Impacts: Travel in high profile vehicles is not recommended while the strongest winds are occurring. These winds could produce significant damage to trees and property. Avoid walking in areas near large trees as large limbs may be blown down.

Precautionary/Preparedness Actions: Loose outdoor items such as patio furniture, holiday decorations, and trash cans should remain secured or moved indoors through this weekend. Make sure you have extra food and water on hand, flashlights with spare batteries and/or candles in the event of a power outage.