A powerful blizzard has hit Sierra Nevada, causing highway closures, ski resort shutdowns, and power outages in Northern California. The storm, which has already passed through most of the Sierra Nevada, is expected to bring more snow to the region. Sections of Interstate 80 near Lake Tahoe remain closed, with no estimated time for reopening. Motorists have been warned to use tire chains for improved traction. The National Weather Service has issued warnings for scattered thunderstorms and the possibility of another 2 feet of snow at higher elevations. They strongly discourage mountain travel.
The multiday storm has caused traffic backups and closures on various roadways, as well as the closure of ski resorts for two days. Pacific Gas & Electric and NV Energy have been working to restore power to affected homes and businesses, with significant progress made by Sunday night. Palisades Tahoe, the largest resort on the north end of Lake Tahoe, was among several ski mountains that had to close their chairlifts due to heavy snow, wind, and low visibility. The resort reported a three-day snow total of 6 feet, with more snowfall expected.
Local residents and tourists have been advised to stay home due to unsafe road conditions. Kevin Dupui, a resident of Truckee, shared that his snow blower broke but mentioned that there is nowhere to put all the snow anyway. Despite some initial skepticism about the storm, residents have witnessed its intensity and are taking precautions. Jenelle Potvin, another Truckee resident, described the storm as a blizzard that brought continuous snowfall. People in her neighborhood were seen snowmobiling and cross-country skiing on the streets.
In the eastern Sierra, the Mammoth Mountain Ski Area had to close due to strong winds making avalanche mitigation efforts impossible. Over three days, the area received over 3 feet of snow, with more in the forecast. Although the storm was considered an “extreme blizzard,” meteorologists do not expect any records to be broken. Another storm is expected to bring rain and snow to the region between Monday and Wednesday.
The storm has had a significant impact on transportation, with a 100-mile stretch of I-80 between Reno and Sacramento shut down due to spinouts, high winds, and low visibility. Authorities have not provided an estimate for when the freeway will reopen. Despite the challenges, locals in Truckee seem unfazed by the snow, as they are accustomed to dealing with it and make necessary preparations.
In conclusion, Sierra Nevada has experienced a powerful blizzard that has caused disruptions in transportation, ski resort operations, and power supply. Northern California is expected to receive more snow in the coming days. Residents have been advised to stay home and use tire chains for improved traction. The storm has brought significant snowfall, leading to road closures and power outages. While some residents initially doubted the severity of the storm, they have witnessed its impact and are taking precautions. The Mammoth Mountain Ski Area had to close due to strong winds, and another storm is forecasted for the region. Despite the challenges, locals in Truckee are accustomed to snowfall and are prepared to handle it.
