A winter storm watch was issued by the National Weather Service on Friday at 2:05 p.m. valid from Sunday 5 p.m. until Monday, Mar. 17 at 11 p.m. for the Greater Lake Tahoe Area.
“Snow accumulations between 1 to 2 feet at the Sierra crest with 6 to 12 inches below 7000 feet. Ridge winds gusting as high as 80 mph,” can be anticipated according to the NWS Reno NV. “The heaviest snowfall for the advisory is through 5 p.m. this evening. This will affect the afternoon and evening commute across mountain passes.”
“Travel could be very difficult to impossible. The hazardous conditions could impact the Friday evening and Monday morning commutes. Very strong winds could cause extensive damage to trees and power lines,” the NWS said. “Monitor the latest forecasts for updates on this situation. Slow down and use caution while traveling. The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.”
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.
Winter driving essentials: Recommendations from the NWS for safe journeys
Winter weather can make driving treacherous, leading to over 6,000 weather-related vehicle fatalities and over 480,000 injuries each year. When traveling during snow or freezing rain, prioritize safety by slowing down. In near-freezing temperatures, it’s safest to assume that icy conditions exist on roadways and adjust your driving accordingly. Be cautious of ice accumulating on power lines or tree branches, which can lead to snapping and falling hazards. If possible, avoid driving in such conditions. If you must venture out, opt for routes with fewer trees and power lines. Never touch a downed power line, and immediately dial 911 if you come across one. Here are additional winter driving tips from the NWS:
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 aware 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.