The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a winter storm watch for the greater Lake Tahoe area from 4:00 p.m. Friday until 10:00 p.m. Sunday. The Weather Service is forecasting several feet of new snow over Donner Pass on Interstate 80 and Echo Summit on U.S. Highway 50, with wind gusts 40-50 mph that could produce whiteout conditions. Caltrans District 3 warns travelers that chain controls on Interstate 80 over Donner Summit, on U.S. Highway 50 over Echo Summit and on other Sierra mountain roadways should be anticipated Friday night through early Monday. Caltrans permitted and trained chain installers on I-80 can be identified by a reflective sign with their bib number. Chain installers are not permitted to sell chains. Motorists must carry chains or other legally approved traction control devices.
Sandbag Locations
Winter weather is here and the Nevada County Office of Emergency Services (OES) would like to remind residents that free sand and sandbags are available at four locations.
- Next to the Nevada County Warehouse on the corner of Highway 49 and East Broad Street in Nevada City
- Penn Valley Fire Protection District located at 10513 Spenceville Road in Penn Valley
- North San Juan Community Hall located at 10057 Reservoir Street in North San Juan
- Higgins Fire Station 21 located at 10106 Combie Road in Grass Valley
Residents must bring their own shovel to fill the sandbags with sand. Sand bags are very limited, so we do request that residents only take what they plan to use for protection of their personal property.
Prepare for Winter Weather
With more winter weather incoming, take a look at the following tips to prepare yourself for the winter season:
Winterize your Vehicle
- Avoid areas subject to sudden flooding
- Do not attempt to drive (or walk) across running water more than a few inches deep
- Avoid driving in water that downed electrical or power lines have fallen in
- Avoid hydroplaning by driving slowly and keeping your tires inflated correctly
Winterize your House
- Clear rain gutters
- Repair roof leaks
- Cut away tree branches that could fall on your house
Report County Road Issues due to Weather
For road failures and trees down in the right of way during business hours call (530) 265-1411 and call 911 for any emergencies. You can also report issues with County roads online with the Ask Nevada County web page or download the app in the App Store or Google Play.
Monitor the Weather
An important reminder for storm preparedness is to monitor a forecasted severe weather event, by monitoring the local media or visiting online weather forecast services. National Weather Service Sacramento and National Weather Service Reno are great local resources.
Contact Us
For additional questions or comments, contact the OES at oes@co.nevada.ca.us or (530) 265-1515.
