A late-season winter storm is expected to bring severe winds, snow, and rain to California and the surrounding areas this weekend, prompting warnings from meteorologists. Boaters on Lake Mead were advised against going out on the reservoir due to the significant impact of high winds on the waters. The storm is forecast to bring over 12 inches of snow to the high-elevation Sierra Nevada, with possible locally higher amounts of 18-24 inches. Lower elevation areas are expecting heavy rain, particularly on Saturday. Las Vegas is not expecting snow or heavy rain, but high winds are anticipated to blow through the area, prompting warnings of power outages, blowing dust, and debris.
Meteorologists warned that the strong winds in Las Vegas, with speeds between 30-40 mph and gusts up to 60 mph, could last from Saturday morning through Sunday night. Residents in the area were advised to secure loose items to prevent damage from the winds. Lake vendors often refuse to rent boats when wind speeds reach 20-30 mph due to the dangerous conditions on the lake with rough waves. The NWS Las Vegas office issued a high wind watch for various areas including Lake Mead, Lake Mojave, White and Inyo Mountains, Lake Havasu, and others, cautioning against hazardous conditions for small craft due to strong winds and rough waves.
In California, travel is expected to become hazardous with motorists potentially needing to use chain controls. The heaviest snowfall is forecast for Lassen Volcanic National Park with up to 24 inches, while the most rain is expected in Blue Canyon with 3 inches. Various other areas are anticipated to receive between .25 inches and over an inch of rain. The NWS advised caution and preparation for the storm, with potential impacts on travel and outdoor activities throughout the region. Boaters, in particular, were urged to stay off the waters of Lake Mead and other affected lakes due to the hazardous conditions caused by the strong winds.
As the storm moves in, residents and visitors in the affected areas are bracing for the impact of the severe weather conditions. Lake Mead, the largest man-made water reservoir in the U.S., is expected to be especially affected by the high winds. Boaters were cautioned against venturing out onto the lake due to the dangerous waves caused by the strong winds. Local meteorologist Barry Pierce emphasized the potential dangers of boating in high winds, warning of being tossed around and “beat up” by the waves. The NWS issued warnings for several areas in Nevada and California, highlighting the hazardous conditions created by the strong winds, particularly on area lakes where small craft could face significant risks.
Overall, the upcoming weekend is expected to be marked by severe weather conditions, with high winds, snow, and rain impacting various parts of California, Nevada, and other surrounding areas. Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions, secure loose items, and avoid outdoor activities that could be dangerous due to the weather. Boaters, in particular, are urged to stay off the waters of Lake Mead and other affected lakes to ensure their safety in the face of the strong winds and rough waves that are expected to create hazardous conditions. Travelers are also urged to exercise caution on the roads, as travel may become hazardous with snow and rain expected in some areas.
