Threat of avalanche in Crystal Bay area

If the storm materializes as predicted, the substantial rapid wind loading of new snow and slightly rising temperatures large natural or human triggered avalanches will be possible in the Crystal Bay and Third Creek areas.

Third Creek and the adjacent South Slope are not expected to produce avalanches that will affect houses or roads, but Crystal Bay homes and upper roads may be at risk by Sunday morning, according to North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District.

The Sierra Avalanche Center has issued a considerable avalanche hazard warning for the backcountry. Residents in the Crystal Bay and Third Creek areas should exercise caution if accessing the slopes above their homes.

Residents are asked to pay attention to snow load near windows. The warning to be prepared to stay indoors Sunday through possibly Monday until this next storm system passes.

— Lake Tahoe News staff report