Winter storm warning active for the Greater Lake Tahoe Area from Sunday to Wednesday

On Saturday at 11:51 a.m. a winter storm warning was issued by the National Weather Service valid from Sunday 10 p.m. until Wednesday Feb. 18, at 10 p.m. for the Greater Lake Tahoe Area.

“Snow accumulations between 2 to 3 feet in the Tahoe Basin, highest on the west shore, and much of Alpine County. Snow accumulations of 3 to 5 feet above 7000 feet. Winds gusting 35 to 45 mph in valleys, with Sierra ridge gusts over 100 mph,” can be expected according to the NWS Reno NV. “The highest snowfall rates will be late Monday afternoon through Tuesday evening.”

“Travel could be very difficult to impossible with periods of white out conditions. Very strong winds could cause damage to trees and power lines,” the NWS said. “If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.”

TahoeAlerts offers a one-stop alert notification registration for residents and visitors throughout the Tahoe region. To receive alerts, visit the TahoeAlerts website.

Where to find winter weather shelters in your county:

Winter weather shelters in Santa Clara County: San Jose operates the Overnight Warming Location program.

Winter weather shelters in Alameda County: List of winter shelters operated 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 in order to seek access to the Inclement Weather Program or other shelter programs.

Winter weather shelters in Contra Costa County: For information about how to connect with 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 centers where anyone can go to keep warm during extreme weather temperatures.

Staying safe on winter roads: Winter driving tips from the NWS

Winter’s icy grip often turns roads treacherous, leading to over 6,000 weather-related vehicle fatalities and more than 480,000 injuries each year. When you find yourself on snowy or freezing rain-slicked roads, your top priority should be safety. Slow down and exercise caution. In temperatures near freezing, it’s prudent to assume icy patches on the road and adjust your driving accordingly. Be on alert for ice accumulating on power lines and tree branches, as they may break and fall. If possible, avoid driving in these conditions altogether. But if you must venture out, choose routes with fewer trees and power lines, and never touch a downed power line. If you encounter one, dial 911 immediately. Here are additional winter weather driving tips:

Share your travel plans:

When traveling out of town in hazardous winter weather, inform your family or friends of your destination, planned route, and estimated time of arrival.

Prepare your vehicle:

Ensure your gas tank is full and equip your vehicle with essential winter supplies, including a windshield scraper, jumper cables, a small shovel, flashlight, cell phone, blanket, extra warm clothing, drinking water, and high-calorie non-perishable food.

Stay calm when stranded:

If you become stranded, stay composed. Notify someone about your situation and location. Avoid attempting to walk to safety. Attach a cloth to your car’s antenna or mirror to signal that you require assistance. Make your vehicle more visible by using the dome light and flashers.

Be mindful of snow plows:

Keep an eye out for snow plows and allow them ample room to pass. Only overtake a plow when you have a clear view of the road ahead.

Check road conditions:

Before embarking on your journey, verify the current road conditions to make informed travel decisions.

Stay safe on wintry roads with these valuable winter driving tips from the NWS, and reduce the risk of accidents during challenging weather conditions.

For more weather alerts in the Tahoe area, visit Weather Advisories