They may not pack much of a punch, but given persistent drought conditions, something is better than nothing. Two fast moving winter systems will impact the Sierra and western Nevada beginning today and into the weekend, according to the National Weather Service.
The first system will arrive today, Thursday, with a cold frontal passage increasing west to northwest winds to around 25 mph. Light rain and snow showers are possible, but accumulations will be minimal with better chances across northeast Nevada. Snow levels will generally be 4,500 feet near the Oregon border, rising to around 5,500 feet in the southern Sierra.
The second system for Saturday is stronger, with the greatest impact likely to be the strong and gusty winds. Wind gusts of 45 to 55 mph are possible along the Highway 395 corridor with 80 to 100 mph gusts over Sierra ridges. Widespread gusts of 35 to 45 mph are possible in the west central Nevada basin and range.
Winds will create rough conditions on area lakes and may cause travel difficulties for high profile vehicles; there is also potential for blowing dust. This system has a decent amount of moisture to work with, but the quick passage will not allow for much precipitation accumulation with only a few inches of snow possible in the Sierra and light rain and snow showers in western Nevada. Snow levels with this system will be 5,500 to 6,500 feet.
For the latest Carson City area weather go to www.CarsonWeather.com.