Winter Storm Expected To Dump Snow In The Sierra, Make Freeway Travel Difficult

SACRAMENTO (CBS13/NWS) - A storm approaching our area Tuesday will first bring snow to and wind gusts to the high country, kicking in along Interstate 80 and parts north by 9 a.m.

Expect winds gusting from the south at 25-35 mph.

A winter storm warning in effect from 7 a.m. to noon Wednesday for western slope of the Sierra and foothills. The following information is from the National Weather Service.

Heavy snow will cause major travel problems in the mountains and foothills. Road closures and traffic delays are likely. Driving conditions normally seen only near pass levels will occur at much lower elevations.

Snow begins this morning and continues into tonight with the heaviest snow expected this afternoon. Snow showers will continue overnight into Wednesday with snow levels dropping to around 2,000 feet Tuesday night.

Snow will accumulate Twelve to 22 inches will pile up along the crest, 6 to 12 inches above 4,000 feet; 2 to 6 inches down to 2,500 feet.

A winter storm warning for heavy snow means severe winter weather conditions are expected or occurring. Significant amounts of snow are forecast that will make travel difficult.

A wind advisory is in effect for Lake Tahoe area until noon Tuesday. Winds will be out of the southwest 15 to 30 mph with gusts up to 50 mph. At the ridge of the Sierra wind gusts will be 60 to 100 mph.

Wave heights: Two to 5 feet. Highest from mid lake to the north and east shores.

Impacts: Damage to drought stressed trees is possible. Boating conditions for Lake Tahoe will be dangerous.