A winter storm warning is in effect for the Greater Lake Tahoe Area from Sunday through Wednesday – The Mercury News
On Saturday at 11:51 a.m. a winter storm warning was issued by the National Weather Service that is in effect from Sunday at 10 p.m. until Wednesday, Feb. 18, 10 pm in the Greater Lake Tahoe Area.
“Snow accumulation between 2 to 3 feet in the Tahoe Basin, highest on the west coast, and much of the Alpine Region. Snow accumulation of 3 to 5 feet above 7000 feet. Winds 35 to 45 mph in the valleys, with Sierra ridge gusts above 100 mph according to NWS Reno. “Heaviest snow amounts will be Monday afternoon. until Tuesday evening.”
“Travel can be very difficult in whiteout conditions. Strong winds can cause damage to trees and power lines,” NWS said. “If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your car in case of an emergency. The latest traffic conditions for the county you are driving in can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.”
TahoeAlerts offers one-stop notification registration for residents and visitors throughout Tahoe County. For alerts, visit the TahoeAlerts website.
Where to find winter weather shelters in your region:
Winter weather shelters in Santa Clara County: San Jose operates the Overnight Warming Shelter program.
Alameda County Winter Weather Shelters: List of winter shelters operating in Alameda County, from Alameda County Health Care for the Homeless.
Winter Weather Shelters in San Mateo County: San Mateo County residents in need of shelter should visit their local Core Service Agency to request access to the Clement Weather Program or other shelter programs.
Winter weather shelters in Contra Costa County: For information on how to contact all emergency shelters in Contra Costa, call 211 or click on the list of shelters provided by Contra Costa Health.
Winter weather shelters in Solano County: Solano County offers a list of facilities where anyone can go to stay warm during severe weather.
Staying safe on winter roads: Winter driving tips from the NWS
Snowfall in winter often makes roads treacherous, leading to more than 6,000 weather-related vehicle deaths and more than 480,000 injuries each year. If you find yourself on icy or icy roads, your first priority should be safety. Slow down and be careful. In near-freezing temperatures, it’s wise to take in the icy patches on the road and adjust your driving accordingly. Be aware of snow accumulation on power lines and tree branches, as they may break and fall. If possible, avoid driving in these conditions altogether. But if you must go out, choose routes with fewer trees and power lines, and never touch a downed power line. If you experience it, call 911 immediately. Here are some winter weather driving tips:
Share your travel plans:
If you’re going out of town in dangerous winter weather, let your family or friends know your destination, planned route, and estimated time of arrival.
Prepare your car:
Make sure your gas tank is full and equip your car with winter essentials, including a windshield scraper, jumper cables, a small shovel, flashlight, cell phone, blanket, extra warm clothes, drinking water, and high-calorie nonperishable food.
Stay calm when confused:
If you lose strength, stay strong. Let someone know about your status and location. Avoid trying to get to a safe place. Tape a cloth to your car’s trunk or mirror to show that you need help. Make your car more visible by using dome light and headlights.
Watch out for snow plows:
Watch out for snow plows and let them pass. Just pass the plow when you have a clear view of the road ahead.
Check road conditions:
Before taking your trip, check the current traffic conditions so you can make informed travel decisions.
Stay safe on winter roads with these important winter driving tips from NWS, and reduce the risk of accidents during challenging weather conditions.
For more weather alerts in the Tahoe area, visit Weather Advisories
