Winter Storm Watch in place for Lake Tahoe this week

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The National Weather Service (NWS) in Reno has issued a Winter Storm Watch for the Lake Tahoe Basin and surrounding area from December 8 at 4:00 p.m. through 10:00 p.m. on December 9.

WHAT...Heavy snow is possible. Total snow accumulations of 3 to 10 inches, except 8 to 13 inches above 7000 feet possible. Winds could gust as high as 60 mph.

WHERE...Greater Lake Tahoe Area.

WHEN...From Wednesday afternoon through Thursday evening.

IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult. The hazardous conditions could impact the morning or evening commute. Strong winds could cause tree damage.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Snow levels will begin between 6500-7000 feet and rapidly fall to Lake Level by midnight Wednesday night. Additionally, lake-effect snow bands are also possible southeast of Lake Tahoe Thursday evening as very cold air rides over the relatively warm lake surface.

The next storm is expected on Monday, December 13.

The forecast for the weekend:

Friday - Sunny, with a high near 35.
Friday Night - Mostly clear, with a low around 15.
Saturday - Sunny, with a high near 45.
Saturday Night - Partly cloudy, with a low around 20.
Sunday - A slight chance of snow. Partly sunny, with a high near 47.
Sunday Night - A chance of snow. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 23.
Monday - A chance of snow. Partly sunny, with a high near 39.