Winter storm arrives at Lake Tahoe

The change in the weather has been a long time comin' and now it appears to have arrived, to rephrase an old Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young song. Here's the latest from the National Weather Service in Reno:
A strong Pacific storm that has prompted a winter storm warning through 10 a.m. Saturday will affect the region tonight bringing heavy snow and gusty winds to the Sierra. The heaviest snowfall is expected to remain above 7,000 feet in the Lake Tahoe Basin. Snow will increase later tonight as the cold system moves through dropping between 2 to 4 inches an hour.

Accumulations expected: 2-3 feet above 8,000 feet and 6 to 12 inches above 7,000 feet and 3 to 6 inches at lake level. Snow levels will rise to 9,00 feet tonight before lowering to near 7,500 feet after midnight. Wind will increase with the storm, out of the southwest with 20 to 45 mph gusts. Sierra ridge gusts could clock 125 mph.

Travelers ashould be careful of winter driving conditions as roads may become slick and icy tonight and through Saturday morning. For the next winter storm, another round of gusty winds, colder temperatures, and rain and snow are possible Sunday night into Monday morning. Forecaster confidence is high for rain and snow to impact the region, but snow levels are still uncertain. Motorists planning to travel through early next week should prepare for winter driving conditions and check back frequently for updates to the forecast.