27 Jan 2021 | 02:46 PM UTC
US: Adverse winter weather forecast across mountainous regions in parts of California and western Nevada through Jan. 29
System to bring rounds of heavy snowfall, ice, and strong winds to portions of California and Nevada, US, through at least Jan. 29.
Event
A storm system is forecast to bring heavy snowfall and ice to portions of the mountainous regions of eastern and northern California and far west-central Nevada, US, through at least Jan. 29. As of early Jan. 27, heavy snowfall has begun across the Sierra Nevada and Klamath Mountains. Forecast models indicate the system will continue to track eastward, bringing heavy snowfall and ice to the Midwest, Ohio Valley, Mid-Atlantic, and Northeast regions through Jan. 26. Some uncertainty remains in the forecasted track of the system, and projected snow amounts are subject to changes over the coming days.
Government Advisories
As of Jan. 27, the US National Weather Service (NWS) has issued winter storm warnings for high elevation areas of northern and eastern California and west-central Nevada, near Reno, while blizzard warnings are in effect for the central Sierra Nevada Mountains of eastern California. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update existing advisories as the winter storm transits the region over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
The latest forecast guidance indicates that accumulations of 0.9-2.4 meters (3-8 feet) of snow are expected in the Sierra Nevada mountains region. Locally higher totals of 3 meters (10 feet) are possible at the highest elevations of the central Sierra Nevada Mountains, where the heaviest snowfall is forecast. Lesser accumulations of 0.3-0.6 meters (1-2 feet) are expected at the foothills of the mountains, including the northern Sacramento Valley near Redding, California, where sleet and freezing rain mix with the snow and the precipitation is less intense. In addition to the heavy snow, strong wind gusts are likely to lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow. Blizzard conditions are possible. Sporadic power outages are likely throughout the affected area.
Transport
The inclement weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions across the affected area through at least Jan. 29. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Difficult and potentially dangerous driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roadways in the affected states as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of highway if driving conditions become too hazardous. Gusty winds may threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected area. Heavy wet snow and strong winds could bring down power lines and trees with foliage. Flight delays and cancellations are likely due to ground stops and deicing operations at regional airports.
Advice
Monitor local media for updated weather information. Verify road conditions before driving in areas where heavy snowfall is forecast. Allow extra time to reach destinations in these areas and carry an emergency kit and warm clothes if driving is necessary, especially on secondary or rural routes that could become impassable. Plan accordingly for delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area through at least Jan. 29. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
