Carson City has announced the cancellation of schools for Tuesday in anticipation of a winter storm warning affecting the area. The Carson City School District communicated this decision on Monday evening, allowing families to make necessary childcare arrangements ahead of the storm.
As snowfall begins to intensify, other regions are experiencing significant traffic disruptions. Caltrans reported that eastbound traffic on Interstate 80 is being halted near Colfax due to multiple spinouts. For safe travel, chains are mandatory on all vehicles except four-wheel-drive vehicles equipped with snow tires, from 3.4 miles east of Gold Run to Truckee.
In preparation for worsening conditions, westbound tractor-trailers have been halted at the Nevada state line, and trucks already on the pass are stopped at the Nyack brake check area. These measures are expected to result in considerable delays, with hazardous winter driving conditions anticipated throughout the evening.
Earlier in the day, Interstate 80 eastbound briefly encountered traffic holds before reopening, though chain controls remain in effect as the snowfall persists. Similar chain requirements apply further east, especially near the Nevada state line.
Mount Rose Highway is also under chain control orders, effective from Sunridge Drive to just before Incline Village. Caltrans has encouraged drivers to remain cautious, especially with the forecasted increase in holiday traffic and challenging winter driving conditions.
In Reno-Sparks, snowfall has already begun, with expectations for up to 6 inches on valley floors and even heavier accumulations in the mountains. National Weather Service meteorologist Edan Lindaman indicated there will be a mix of rain and snow throughout the day, with as much as an inch accumulating in valley areas.
By Tuesday, valley locations may receive 4 to 6 inches, while higher elevations could see over a foot of snow. Commuters are urged to prepare for delays on Tuesday morning and evening, as these weather conditions are projected to be the most significant for the season thus far.
Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe reported moderate snow accumulation, presenting a favorable outlook for skiers, highlighting the arrival of “powder days” ahead as conditions improve for winter sports enthusiasts.