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3h ago

Sierra Storm Triggers Advisories as Tahoe Snow Forecast Is Dialed Back

A warmer, farther-offshore track is keeping snow levels high, trimming Tahoe basin totals at lower elevations.

An aerial view of Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe in Lake Tahoe.
Cars drive in limited visibility on US Route 1, in Saugus, Massachusetts on December 17, 2020. - A major snowstorm hit the US east coast during Thursday's early hours, creating extra challenges in the midst of a coronavirus pandemic and a mass vaccination rollout taking place across the region.The winter storm, moving over New York, Pennsylvania and other northeastern states, leaves millions facing more than a foot of snow a week before Christmas, potentially disrupting coronavirus testing and delaying holiday deliveries. It also left more than 60 million people under bad weather warnings from Maine to South Carolina.
Winter Storm Severity Index for November 13-16, 2025. Credit: NWS

Overview

  • The National Weather Service issued winter weather and wind advisories across the Sierra Nevada and urged drivers to delay travel if possible.
  • Forecasters still expect roughly 12–18 inches on the highest peaks, while the Greater Lake Tahoe Area is projected to see only a few inches at lower elevations with 4–6 inches above 8,000 feet in the first wave.
  • Ridgetop gusts could reach about 90–100 mph, with elevated waves of 2–4 feet on Lake Tahoe and a risk of tree and power line damage.
  • Two storm waves are expected, with the first arriving Thursday and a second around Saturday, and officials note ongoing uncertainty in snow levels and timing.
  • Mt. Rose has delayed opening and says it needs about 12–14 inches of sustainable coverage, with this event unlikely to provide enough at lower elevations.