Winter Weather Advisory and Storm Watch in place for Christmas Week at Lake Tahoe

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - There is no doubt that it will be a white Christmas around Lake Tahoe in 2021, and how much snow on the ground will be the gift many are wishing for.

A series of Pacific winter storms will bring periods of stormy weather to much of California and Nevada next week. There will be few, if any, meaningful breaks in the weather for the Sierra once the storms begin on Tuesday, so plan ahead.

The holiday week starts off with a 24-hour Winter Weather Advisory from 4:00 p.m. Tuesday to 4:00 p.m. Wednesday. It will be the warmest storm of the week so wet snow and some rain is expected. Snow may mix with rain at times below 6500 feet through Wednesday. Total snow accumulations of 1 to 4 inches, except 5 to 12 inches above 7000 feet. Winds gusting as high as 75 mph over exposed ridges.

That is followed by a Christmas Winter Storm Watch from Wednesday afternoon through Sunday afternoon. Heavy snow is possible as the temperatures are colder with this system. Total snow accumulations of 1 to 3 feet, except 3 to 8 feet above 7000 feet possible. Winds could gust as high as 40 mph, except 100 mph or more over exposed ridges.

Even light snowfall causes major travel delays, especially during periods of high traffic volume as is expected in the two weeks ahead at Lake Tahoe. Be sure to allow extra time to reach your destination and follow Caltrans and NDOT websites for weather and traffic.

Now is the time to prepare an emergency kit for your home and car. If traveling, consider alternate plans, remember to carry tire chains, extra food, water, and clothing. Once the major storm arrives later Wednesday, travel may be difficult or impossible for an extended period of time.