Sierra County, CA
Alerts
Alerts are listed in order of start time and level of severity. Click on the alert title to read details for each alert.
In effect from Monday 04/20 11:00 AM PDT – Monday 04/20 10:00 PM PDT
Issued by NWS Reno NV
What
Southwest winds 10 to 20 mph with gusts up to 35 mph on northeast California and eastern Sierra lakes, including Lake Tahoe where wave heights of 1 to 3 feet are expected.
Where
Greater Lake Tahoe Area, Lassen-Eastern Plumas-Eastern Sierra Counties, and Mono County. Impacted lakes include Eagle Lake, Lake Davis, Frenchman Lake, Stampede and Boca reservoirs, Donner Lake, Lake Tahoe, Bridgeport Reservoir, Topaz Lake, Mono Lake, and Crowley Lake.
When
From 11 AM this morning to 10 PM PDT this evening.
Impacts
Small boats, kayaks and paddle boards will be prone to capsizing and should remain off lake waters until conditions improve.
What to do
Check lake conditions before heading out and be prepared for a sudden increase in winds and wave heights. Consider postponing boating activities on the lake until a day with less wind.
Areas impacted
- Lassen-Eastern Plumas-Eastern Sierra Counties
- Greater Lake Tahoe Area
- Mono
- Greater Lake Tahoe Area
Tips to stay safe
A Lake Wind Advisory means that strong winds are happening now or soon, and will cause rough waters on area lakes.
Boaters should use extra caution.
In effect from Tuesday 04/21 2:00 AM PDT – Wednesday 04/22 5:00 PM PDT
Issued by NWS Sacramento CA
What
Heavy snow possible above 5000 feet. Total snow accumulations of up to 12 to 18 inches, with up to 2 feet at the highest peaks. Minor accumulations of up to 2 inches possible down to 4500 feet. Southwest winds could gust as high as 50 mph.
Where
Sierra Nevada and southern Cascades above 5000 feet, including Highway 50, Interstate 80 and Lassen National Park.
When
From late Monday night through Wednesday afternoon.
Impacts
Travel could be very difficult. The hazardous conditions could impact the Tuesday and Wednesday commutes.
Additional Details
Snow levels initially 6000 to 7000 feet Monday night, lowering to 5500 to 6500 feet Tuesday, and down to 4500 to 5500 feet Wednesday. Heaviest snowfall expected Tuesday afternoon and evening.
What to do
Check the latest road conditions from Caltrans online at quickmap.dot.ca.gov or dial 5 1 1.
Areas impacted
- Lassen Volcanic National Park
- Sierra Nevada of Tehama-Butte-Plumas Counties Above 3000 ft
- Sierra Nevada of Sierra-Nevada-Placer Counties Above 5000 ft Including Interstate 80
- Sierra Nevada of El Dorado-Amador-Northern Alpine Counties Above 5000 ft Including Highway 50
- Sierra Nevada of Calaveras-Tuolumne-Southern Alpine Counties Above 5000 ft
Tips to stay safe
A Winter Storm Watch means that the area could see a significant winter storm, including sleet, heavy snow, ice, or some combination. Take action now to prepare your home, vehicle and family.
- Make sure you have an emergency kit in your car, and emergency supplies in your home. These should include food, water, essential medications, and spare phone chargers.
- Try to avoid travel when winter weather is expected. If you must drive in the snow, make sure you have a full tank of gas and/or a fully charged battery. Go slowly and keep your distance from other vehicles.
- Make sure that pets and other animals have plenty of food and water, and access to a warm shelter.
- Stay tuned for updates here or through local radio and news.
From the forecaster
Winter Storm Watch
Created by the NWS Sacramento WFO
With periods of moderate to heavy snow possible Tuesday into Wednesday, a Winter Storm Watch is in effect from 2 am Tuesday, April 21 through 5 pm Wednesday, April 22, 2026 for Sierra/southern Cascades locations above 5000 feet.
Winter Storm Watch
Created by the NWS Reno WFO
A Winter Storm Watch is in effect for the Greater Lake Tahoe region and Mono County as a spring storm brings heavy snow and strong/gusty winds Tuesday morning through Wednesday.
Seven-day weather risk overview
Daily weather risk summary
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