A massive blizzard has hit parts of California and Nevada in the western United States, causing widespread disruption and leaving thousands without power. The storm has led to the closure of major roads and ski resorts, with wind gusts reaching up to 305km/h (190mph) in the Sierra Nevada region. The mountainous areas, including the greater Lake Tahoe area, are facing a high to extreme avalanche danger. As a result, more than 15,000 customers in California and over 1,000 in Nevada are currently without electricity.
The Interstate 80 highway, spanning 75 miles (121km), was shut down on Saturday due to the blizzard conditions. Emergency personnel and tow trucks faced difficulties in reaching motorists stranded on the road. The storm is expected to bring over 3m (10ft) of snow at higher elevations, posing a life-threatening concern for those living near Lake Tahoe. Ski resorts around the lake have closed since Friday and are hoping to reopen later on Sunday.
One bartender at Alibi Ale Works in Incline Village, near Lake Tahoe, described the situation, saying, “It’s snowing pretty hard out there, really windy, and power is out to about half the town.” Despite the challenging circumstances, the establishment remained open while many others had to shut down.
Yosemite National Park was closed on Friday as a precautionary measure, with visitors asked to leave by noon. The closure will last at least until Sunday afternoon, and potentially longer depending on weather conditions. Forecasts have advised people to stay where they are over the weekend, emphasizing that it could take significant time to dig out commuters who may become stranded in the storm.
While California and Nevada grapple with the blizzard, other parts of the United States are experiencing extreme weather as well. In Texas, wildfires are raging, and firefighters are facing difficulties in containing the massive blaze due to challenging weather conditions.
As the blizzard continues to batter California and Nevada, residents and authorities are working together to cope with the aftermath. Efforts are underway to restore power and clear roads, ensuring the safety and well-being of those affected by the storm. With severe weather conditions persisting in various parts of the country, it is crucial for individuals to stay informed and take necessary precautions to stay safe.
