Winter storms in the Reno-Tahoe region introduce hazardous road conditions, traffic delays, and potential power outages. Drivers navigating the Sierra Nevada should anticipate chain controls and closures on mountain passes.
Current Road Conditions and Travel
When winter weather impacts travel, check the road conditions hub for the latest closures and chain requirements. Major routes like I-80 road conditions and US-50 road conditions frequently experience delays due to snow removal operations and accidents.
If traveling into the higher elevations, monitor SR-431 Mt Rose road conditions and SR-267 road conditions, as these mountain passes are often the first to require traction devices.
Major mountain passes serving Reno and Lake Tahoe.
Emergency Preparedness
Winter storms can lead to extended traffic delays or vehicle breakdowns. Before departing, ensure your vehicle has a full tank of gas. Keep an emergency kit inside the car containing:
- Blankets
- Flashlights
- Food and water
- Jumper cables
- Traction devices
If you are a resident, keep devices charged and maintain extra batteries for radios and flashlights. Telecom and internet service may become unstable during severe storms; an AM radio can provide a reliable source of information. If you are medically vulnerable, consider relocating to a friend or family member's home in a non-impacted community before the weather system arrives.
Medical Emergencies and Snow Removal
Snow removal crews prioritize clearing roads for emergency vehicles. Residents should not request immediate plowing for non-emergency situations, such as scheduled doctor's appointments. In the event of a medical emergency during a storm, call 911. Plowing crews provide top-priority assistance to rescue units responding to emergencies.
Weather Monitoring
The National Weather Service (NWS) utilizes the SKYWARN program to gather critical weather information. Trained volunteers provide reports on severe weather, including thunderstorms and flash floods, which helps the NWS issue more timely warnings. While the region is primarily concerned with snow, severe weather can occur year-round.
Infrastructure and Storm Resiliency
State investments are ongoing to improve highway safety and system resiliency against extreme weather. Recent allocations include funding for drainage improvements and roadway repairs to address erosion and storm-related damage. Caltrans maintains specific protocols for construction sites, including Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPP) and Water Pollution Control Programs (WPCP), to prevent water pollution during heavy precipitation events.
For real-time updates on mountain passes, monitor the SR-28 road conditions and SR-89 road conditions before beginning your travel.