The Greater Lake Tahoe Area is under a winter weather advisory until early Wednesday evening – The Mercury News
Tuesday at 1:18 pm a winter weather advisory was issued by the National Weather Service in effect until Wednesday, Feb. 11, 4 pm in the Greater Lake Tahoe Area.
“Snow accumulation of 6 to 12 inches above 7000 feet. At lake level, 1 to 3 inches. Wind gusts up to 35 mph at lake level, with gusts up to 70 mph near the Sierra crest. Wave heights of 1 to 3 feet in Lake Tahoe,” can be expected according to NWS Reno. “There is a 15% chance of lightning so far this evening, which could affect the country’s entertainment.”
“Traveling may be very difficult. Hazardous conditions may affect the Tuesday evening commute and the Wednesday morning commute. Gusty winds may bring down tree branches. Small boats, kayaks and paddle boards will tend to sink and should remain afloat until conditions improve,” according to the NWS. “Slow down and be careful while driving. 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.”
Winter weather wisdom: Driving tips from the NWS for challenging conditions
Winter weather can make driving tricky, leading to more than 6,000 weather-related traffic deaths and 480,000 injuries each year. When driving in snow or freezing rain, put safety first by slowing down. In near-freezing temperatures, it’s safer to assume icy conditions exist on the roads and adjust your driving accordingly. Be aware of snow accumulating on power lines or tree branches, which can lead to tripping and falling hazards. If possible, avoid driving under such conditions. If you must go out, choose routes with fewer trees and power lines. Never touch a downed power cord, and call 911 immediately if you come into contact with it. Here are some winter weather driving tips:
Share your travel plans:
If you’re going out of town in dangerous winter weather, be sure to let family or friends know your destination, intended route, and estimated time of arrival.
Prepare your car:
Make sure your gas tank is full and equip your car with winter essentials such as a windshield scraper, jumper cables, a small shovel, a flashlight, a cell phone, a blanket, extra warm clothes, drinking water, and high-calorie non-perishable food.
Stay calm when confused:
If you lose strength, stay strong. Notify someone of your status and location. Avoid trying to get to a safe place. Show that you need help by attaching a cloth to your car’s antenna or windshield, and make your car more visible by using dome lights and headlights.
Watch out for snow plows:
Watch out for snow plows and give them enough room to pass. Just pass the plow when you have a clear view of the road ahead.
Check road conditions:
Before taking your trip, check the latest road conditions to 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
