Winter to make appearance in Tahoe basin

The days are numbered to see the fall colors in Hope Valley. Photo/Kathryn Reed

The calendar says fall, but the forecast says winter.

According to the National Weather Service in Reno, “Rain totals will be between 3-5 inches for the Sierra from Thursday night through late Sunday.”

Most of the moisture is expected between 6pm Thursday and 6am Friday, and Sunday afternoon to Monday morning.

Winds are going to be so strong that it could impact air travel. Sierra ridge wind gusts are likely to be more 100 mph, along with south to southwest winds 50 to 70 mph, according to the NWS.

“Halloween decorations and trash cans left outside will not remain where you left them,” according to forecasters.

Heavy rain is initially expected. Snow will be at about 8,500 feet. On Sunday the snow level should fall, meaning it will impact travel on Sierra passes.

— Lake Tahoe News staff report