How CA Is Preparing For Dangerous Snowstorm

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California’s Sierra Nevada is on high alert as residents and visitors prepare for what is potentially the season’s strongest storm. Snow totals are expected to be measured in feet, not inches, in many areas. Authorities and local services are taking significant steps to ensure safety and manage the anticipated challenges. Here’s what’s happening so far:

C​hain Controls Activated On Interstate 80

T​he California Highway patrol activated the highest level chain requirements for a stretch of Interstate 80. Motorists were advised to check road conditions before leaving, and avoid travel when possible.

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Travel Will Be Unsafe, How To Prepare

The National Weather Service in Reno has strongly advised against travel in the Sierra Nevada, issuing a blizzard warning that underscores the seriousness of the situation. “If you plan to travel, pack an emergency kit and prepare to be stranded in your vehicle for an extended period of time,” the agency said.

In Nevada County, including Truckee, officials warned of potential road closures. Crews are staging snow removal equipment to respond quickly once the accumulation begins.

At Least One Ski Resort Closed

Ski park Sierra-at-Tahoe announced a preemptive closure for Friday to ensure the safety of guests and staff during the peak of the storm. Meanwhile, ski resort Palisades Tahoe says they’re “thrilled” about the potential for deep snow. However, they’re urging visitors to be prudent, suggesting they check road conditions before making the journey and ensure they have enough gas and groceries before heading into the mountains.

Residents And Business Owners Should Prepare For Power Outages

Liberty Utilities is preparing for potential power disruptions, according to posts on the utility company’s social media pages. Crews are standing by to respond to outages. They advise customers to ensure their contact information is up to date, keep electronic devices charged, fuel up automobiles, keep cash on hand and prepare at least a 48-hour supply of nonperishable food and water.

Liberty Utilities serves the communities of Coleville, Floriston, Loyalton, Markleeville, North Lake Tahoe, Portola, South Lake Tahoe, Topaz Lake, Truckee, Verdi, Walker and Woodfords.

Nevada County officials suggest using a hand-crank radio to receive emergency updates should the power go out. The county office of emergency services recommends the following radio stations as trusted sources of information: YubaNet, KNCO Newstalk 830, KVMR 89.5FM & 105.1FM and The Union in the Grass Valley and Nevada City areas; and 101.5 FM KTKE www.truckeetahoeradio.com, Moonshine Ink and Sierra Sun in the Truckee area.

Take This Storm Seriously

The overarching message is clear: do not underestimate this storm. If you live or work in the area, now is the time to prepare. Make sure you pay attention to guidance from local authorities.

"​Most winters, the Sierra gets hammered by one storm of this magnitude. This will be the most intense storm they've had since about one year ago," weather.com senior meteorologist Jonathan Erdman said. "Snow will fall at the rate of up to 5 inches per hour, coupled with wind gusts over 60 mph leading to whiteout conditions. And those conditions won't just last a few hours, they could last for a few days."

Based in New York, Weather.com reporter Tim Harris is a digital journalist with a broad reporting portfolio that spans environmental science, lifestyle topics and breaking news.

The Weather Company’s primary journalistic mission is to report on breaking weather news, the environment and the importance of science to our lives.