[CVRC] Special Weather Statement for Reno/Carson City, NV

[Dick Flanagan]

Special Weather Statement
414 am PST sun Feb 26 2006

...Two strong storms are expected to bring heavy precipitation to
eastern California and western Nevada this week...

A powerful Pacific storm will push a warm and very moist air mass
over California and western Nevada later today with rain and high
elevation snow reaching the Sierra by late afternoon. Rain will
spread across eastern California and portions of western Nevada
tonight...becoming heavy at times from Monday through Monday
night. Snow levels will remain above 7000 feet...and will likely
rise as high as 8000 feet in the Tahoe basin and as high as 9000
feet over southern Mono County. The combination of high snow
levels and extended period of heavy rain raises a concern for
flooding.

A Flood Watch has been issued for the potential flooding on rivers
and streams in the lower elevations of northeastern California...the
Sierra and western Nevada. All those with interests near rivers...
streams...and washes should be aware of the flood potential
beginning late Sunday and continuing through Tuesday. Be alert
for quick rises on rivers and streams and be prepared to move to
higher ground. Flash flooding and debris flows are also a concern
near the Waterfall fire burn area west of Carson City.

This storm will likely produce several feet of snow above 8000 feet
in the Tahoe basin and above 9000 feet in Mono County. At this
time snow is not expected to accumulate on mountain passes below
8000 feet until late Monday night as a cold front approaches the
area. Strong winds will also accompany the storm. Gusts over the
Sierra ridges could exceed 100 mph...with 40 to 50 mph gusts in
the western Nevada valleys.

The cold front is expected to blast through the region early Tuesday
morning...lowering snow levels to 4000 feet or less. There is a
potential for a rapid snow accumulation of a foot or more below
7000 feet in the Sierra...with several inches of snow possible in
the lower elevations of northeast California and western Nevada on
Tuesday morning.

Another colder storm is expected to reach the area on Wednesday
night and continue through Friday. Snow may accumulate down to the
valley floors with significant snowfall possible. At this time
the greatest potential for heavy snow would occur on Thursday
night in the lower elevations of eastern California and western
Nevada...including the Reno and Carson City areas.

Rain...snow and strong winds will cause difficult travel conditions
for much of this week. Travelers should plan accordingly for these
conditions...and continue to monitor forecasts and statements from
the National Weather Service.

Expires:270000 gmt

--
Dick Flanagan K7VC NV SM
E-mail: k7vc at arrl.org