Blizzard warning in effect for the Sierras and Lake Tahoe

Any and all traveling to the mountain ranges of the Sierra or Lake Tahoe is strongly discouraged, according to the National Weather Service (NWS), in light of a blizzard warning now in effect from today until 4 a.m. Friday.

“The system arriving today will produce several feet of snowfall accompanied by high winds leading to blizzard/whiteout conditions across the higher mountain passes,” stresses NWS. “Travel will be dangerous to nearly impossible, and is strongly discouraged.”

If you must drive in the area, which you shouldn’t, be prepared for significant reductions invisibility. Winds gusting reaching up to 60 mph will result in whiteouts caused by blowing snow.

Between today and Thursday evening, according to SFGate, Donner Pass could get 48 inches to 60 inches of snow, Echo Pass is expected to get 24 inches to 30 inches, and Tioga Pass could see 36 inches to 48 inches.

Again, if you plan on heading to the Sierras between now and Friday, it is strongly suggested that you wait out the storm. In other words, don’t. It’s for your own safety.

For the latest road conditions, call 511.

Meanwhile, in the Bay Area, residents brace for a storm that is expected to bring flooding, mudslides, and other rain-related havoc. A high-wind warning is in effect from now until Thursday at 3 a.m.