If you’re thinking about driving through the Sierra Nevada this week, think again. A major snowstorm is rolling in, bringing up to 5 feet of snow and blizzard-like conditions that could make travel impossible along Interstate 80 (I-80). Experts are calling this one of the biggest storms of the season, and if history tells us anything, it’s that roads like Donner Pass could be completely buried.
What to Expect: Brutal Snow, Howling Winds, and Whiteout Conditions
This storm isn’t messing around. Starting Thursday and lasting into Friday, snow will begin falling fast—at times piling up at an incredible 4 inches per hour. Areas above 6,000 feet will get hit hardest, with heavy accumulations likely in places like Truckee, Lake Tahoe, and Mammoth Lakes.
And it’s not just the snow that’s the problem. Winds up to 50 mph will create blizzard conditions, leading to near-zero visibility. And if you’ve never seen thundersnow before, you might get a rare glimpse—it’s when lightning and thunder strike during a heavy snowstorm, making an already intense situation even more extreme.
I-80 Could Become a No-Go Zone
If you need to drive between California and Nevada, be prepared for major delays—or worse, road closures. The National Weather Service is warning that travel on I-80 could become “difficult to impossible”, and authorities may shut down parts of the highway for safety reasons.
Caltrans and NDOT are already gearing up for the storm, but even plows won’t be able to keep up when snowfall is this heavy. If you absolutely have to travel, bring chains, extra fuel, warm clothing, and an emergency kit—because getting stranded in these conditions could be dangerous.
Bad News for Holiday Travelers
The timing couldn’t be worse. With Valentine’s Day and President’s Day weekend coming up, the usual holiday traffic mixed with a crippling snowstorm could lead to chaos. If you’re planning a ski trip, check resort and road conditions before heading out—you don’t want to get stuck in gridlock or, worse, a full-blown whiteout.
How to Stay Safe
- Avoid Travel if Possible – If you don’t absolutely need to go, stay home and wait it out.
- Pack for an Emergency – Have food, water, blankets, a flashlight, and extra batteries in case you get stranded.
- Check for Road Closures – Keep an eye on updates from Caltrans (California) and NDOT (Nevada) before heading out.
- Expect Long Delays – If you do travel, be patient, drive slowly, and allow extra time.
Final Word: Is It Worth the Risk?
This storm might be great news for skiers, but for travelers, it’s shaping up to be a complete nightmare. If you’re thinking about crossing the Sierra, weigh the risks, plan ahead, and—if possible—stay put until the worst is over.