SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. — A National Weather Service winter weather advisory is in effect for the Greater Lake Tahoe area beginning 10 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15 through 4 p.m. Monday, Nov. 17, bringing mountain snow, gusty winds and difficult travel conditions for El Dorado County’s high-country communities.
Forecasters say 10–16 inches of snow is possible above 7,000 feet, while lake-level accumulations will be limited to an inch or less; Donner Pass could see 8–12 inches over the duration of the event. Ridge gusts as high as 50 mph are expected, with 25–30 mph gusts across the Tahoe basin that will make lake conditions choppy and increase the danger of falling branches.
“Travel could be very difficult to impossible and could impact the Monday morning commute,” the NWS said in its advisory, urging motorists to slow down, carry chains and emergency supplies, and avoid nonessential travel until roads are clear.
Timeline & impacts
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Now–Late Saturday: Showers tapering into the overnight; snow levels begin to lower. Expect wet roads and reduced visibility for late-evening travel.
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10 p.m. Saturday – 4 p.m. Monday: Advisory window — heaviest mountain snow, strong ridge winds, and hazardous driving, particularly on I-80, Highway 50, and mountain passes serving ski areas.
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Monday morning commute: High risk for chain controls, spinouts and road closures. Caltrans and local law enforcement may restrict travel if conditions deteriorate.
Who’s affected
Residents and visitors in South Lake Tahoe, Stateline, Tahoe City, Truckee, Markleeville and other high-elevation communities should prepare for snowfall at ski-area elevations and hazardous driving at pass elevations; low-elevation neighborhoods around the lake should watch for rain changing to a rain/snow mix early Sunday.
Safety and preparedness (recommended actions)
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Pack tire chains, warm clothing, food, water and a charged phone if you must travel.
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Check 511 (Caltrans QuickMap) for real-time chain requirements and road closures before driving through the Sierra.
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Secure loose outdoor items and avoid lake recreation — small craft, kayaks and paddleboards are at risk of capsizing in gusty conditions.
