Traffic on Highway 50 near Logan Creek remains one lane in each direction because of falling boulders. Photo Copyright 2017 Carolyn E. Wright

The f-word is returning — flooding.

That’s the threat from Mother Nature with the next storm that should bring moderate to heavy rain to the area starting Monday night and extending into Tuesday afternoon. A winter storm warning is in effect from 10pm Sunday through 4am Tuesday.

According to the National Weather Service in Reno, the snow levels will fluctuate between 6,000 and 7,500 feet. It will be a mix of rain and snow over Sierra passes, making driving precarious. This could make the holiday exodus even more problematic on Monday.

A flood watch has been issued for the basin and Truckee from 1am Feb. 20 to 10am Feb. 21.

“A strong atmospheric river will bring heavy rain with high snow levels. Moderate to heavy rain and snow melt below 7,000 feet will contribute to increasing flows on rivers and streams with an enhanced flood potential late Sunday night through Tuesday morning,” the National Weather Service said. “The highest risk of flooding is along creeks, streams, and poor drainage areas, including the Upper Truckee River in South Lake Tahoe. Rivers such as the Truckee and the East and West Forks of the Carson will see appreciable rises, but at this time are expected to remain below flood stage.”

Sand bags are available throughout the region at the same locations they’ve been at all winter.

Highway crews in California and Nevada will be keeping an eye on the already unstable hillsides. This moisture has the potential to bring more debris onto roads, and therefore close highways until they are cleared.

While all roads in and around the Lake Tahoe Basin are open now, that can change rapidly. Follow Caltrans or NDOT for the most up-to-date information, or click on the state icons on the home page of Lake Tahoe News.

— Lake Tahoe News staff report