Enjoy those yellow leaves because they may all blow off the trees with the storm that is about to roll into the Lake Tahoe Basin.

A winter storm advisory is in effect for the 24-hour period beginning at 4pm Thursday.

The National Weather Service in Reno says snow will reach the valley floors, with largest accumulations coming Thursday night. The storm could bring 6 to 12 inches above 7,000 feet and 3 to 8 inches below 7,000 feet. Ridge wind gusts could reach 100 mph.

“Lake effect snow bands are possible on the east side of Lake Tahoe and in the Carson Range Friday night,” the Weather Service warns. “Overall, expect moderate snow accumulations from the Lake Tahoe Basin north into Lassen and Plumas counties to create slick and icy road conditions.”

This means chains or four-wheel drive will be the safest bets for traversing the mountain passes.

This storm is also going to be a cold one. While Wednesday’s high was supposed to be 62 degrees, it will be half that on Friday – or 31 degrees. The low Saturday is slated for 6 degrees. The bright spot is the sun will return Sunday, if the forecast is correct.

— Lake Tahoe News staff report