Local governments ask for people to not travel to Lake Tahoe this weekend

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The City of South Lake Tahoe, El Dorado County, US Forest Service, California Highway Patrol, and Placer County are among others all asking for no nonessential travel to the Sierra and Lake Tahoe during the duration of the atmospheric river.

"It may be sunny and clear where you live, but the Sierras are a different story altogether," said El Dorado County in a statement. "Heavenly and Kirkwood resorts are closed. US 50 has been closed intermittently for hours for avalanche control, accidents, and spin-outs. Driving conditions are dangerous. Homes and structures have collapsed. And flooding is expected."

US50 has since reopened but more issues are expected over the weekend.

"Several feet of water are trapped in Central and Northern California snowpack," said the U.S. Forest Service in a press release. "Heavy rains will cause significant melting of heavy snowpack below 6,000 feet and could lead to significant flooding, as well as road and infrastructure damage in those areas. Heavy rains are expected to continue through early next week, which could worsen and prolong flooding impacts."

Crews are out on the roads trying to prevent major flooding, but with the recent heavy snowfall, the current rain has no place to go.

"We have seen almost unprecedented levels of snowfall resulting in several damaged and collapsed buildings and, combined with 5-7 inches of forecasted rain and warmer temperatures resulting in snow melt, there will be a strain on the South Lake Tahoe community and public safety resources. Due to the elevated risk of structure collapses and widespread flooding, we strongly discourage travel into the south shore through this weekend," said the City of South Lake Tahoe on Facebook.

"Many ski resorts have announced an extended ski season, so there is more time to get a ski weekend in," added the City. "We welcome you, but current conditions are not conducive to an enjoyable Tahoe experience. Between the epic ski weekends that are ahead and an incredible summer with a very full lake, we have a lot to look forward to!"