Winter Storm Watch Hits Lake Tahoe Friday
Forecasters expect heavy snow and strong winds across the Sierra Nevada beginning November 13, 2026.
Updated on Nov. 12, 2026 in Forecasts
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The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm watch for the greater Lake Tahoe area, running from Friday morning through Saturday afternoon. Forecasters expect heavy, wet snow with accumulations near 12 inches above roughly 7,000 to 7,500 feet, and up to 6 inches at lower elevations.
Why it matters
Strong winds forecast at 60 to 80 mph over the ridges could affect travel and infrastructure across the region. Forecasters say the storm could bring a major boost to California ski resorts as they prepare for opening day.
The National Weather Service winter storm watch covers forecast snowfall of about 12 inches above 7,000 to 7,500 feet and up to 6 inches at lower elevations, with ridge gusts of 60 to 80 mph. Model estimates for the second storm range from 0.2 to 2.0 inches of precipitation, and final totals remain uncertain.
The players
National Weather Service
The National Weather Service is the federal agency responsible for issuing weather watches, warnings, and forecasts across the United States.
Mammoth Mountain
Mammoth Mountain is a ski resort in the Sierra Nevada whose main base area sits at roughly 9,000 feet.
The details
Heavy, wet snow is expected to weigh down branches, while strong winds may damage trees and power lines. Mammoth Mountain is set to pick up about 12 inches of snow, with its main base area at roughly 9,000 feet.
Timeline
Friday, November 13, 2026: Intense mountain snow and strong wind are expected to begin across the Sierra Nevada.
Friday morning through Saturday afternoon: The National Weather Service winter storm watch is in effect.
Next week: Forecasts call for more snow.
Through November 20: A meteorologist projects totals above two or three feet at some resorts at midmountain.
Seasonal Patterns
The storm forecast follows the typical pattern of early-season Sierra Nevada snowfall that ski resorts depend on before opening day. The widespread pattern change could bring snow to Utah, Colorado, Wyoming and Montana as the season begins.
Drivers heading into the Sierra Nevada should prepare for heavy snow and gusts of 60 to 80 mph over ridges. Residents should secure loose outdoor items and be ready for possible power outages from downed lines.
The takeaway
Plan travel and outdoor activities for Friday through Saturday with extra time and caution, since snow and wind are forecast to be heavy in the Sierra Nevada.
What happens next
Forecasters expect more snow into next week, and the winter storm watch runs through Saturday afternoon.
Further reading
For more context on upcoming conditions, see our Forecasts section.
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