Series of storms set to wallop Sierra

By Kathryn Reed

Time to make a run on the grocery store shelves. It’s that kind of weather forecast.

A series of storms is lined up in the Pacific. They are predicted to hit Lake Tahoe this afternoon.

Snow removal equipment will be put to good use this week. Photo/Kathryn Reed

A winter storm warning has been called for from 4pm Sunday to 4am Tuesday.

Snow levels are expected to reach 5,000 feet on Monday night. Monday night’s storm is likely to have significant winds with it – with ridges hitting 100mph.

Several feet of snow at lake level are in the forecast by the time the week is over.

This means the highways in and out of Tahoe will be closed at different times. That’s why it’s a good idea to stock up on food and candles now because the trucks may take some extra time getting to the basin.

The National Weather Service says, “Travel may become hazardous along Interstate 80 and highways 50 and 89 due to heavy snow and gusty winds Monday and Monday night.”

High temperatures will be in the low 30s most of the coming week, with lows in the high 20s.

Even the Tahoe National Forest issued a warning.

“Travelers and recreationists need to be cautious of rainy, snowy and windy weather all week,” Ann Westling, TNF spokeswoman said in an email. “If heading into the backcountry, check the following website for avalanche conditions: www.sierraavalanchecenter.org.”

South Lake Tahoe officials have sand bags ready. Bring a shovel to either the Rufus Allen Corporation Yard at 1160 Rufus Allen Blvd. or the intersection of David and Ruby lanes to fill a bag.