Lake Tahoe Area Weather and Snowpack Information

My ears hurt

2009-11-09T17:36:00.000-08:00

11/9/09 5:36pm
The hype is deafening. I am not going to make any calls on the precip chances for later in the week right now. I will talk about certainties. What is certain is that it will get windy, it will get colder and we will see snowflakes in Tahoe.

The Uncertainties.......

The model solutions for later this week hold little to no confidence. The track of the GoAK low is not known, and could take a quick, tight path close to the coast which will give us *light* snow on Wednesday night/ Thursday. The low could also take a slower, more seaworthy track (possibly closing off) which would allow to more moisture to become entrained in the system, and push the time frame back to more of a Thursday time frame. By all means, this is what we want. We want slow and out to sea. If the low takes the right trajectory, we could see pretty decent snow accumulations along the Tahoe Sierra Crest, although at this point I doubt that this one storm will be the season starter. Alas, some models show another storm possibly Friday night/ Saturday, and a series of storms later next week.

We all need to keep our excitement in check here. It is going to happen, just won't be able to turn it around in one storm. Temps will be cold, so snowmaking will happen. I am as excited as anyone (chub factor 4 out of 5). We need a bit more time to make sure that the tease factor is limited and we can see this coming stormy period for what it is, not what we want it to be.

Update tomorrow......

-PWG
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Current NWS Lake Tahoe Forecast
Lake Tahoe Backcountry Forecast
Lake Tahoe Recreational Forecast
Wind Chill Chart

Forecast Links:
National Weather Service Reno
National Weather Service Sacramento
NWS Reno Discussion
NWS Sacramento Discussion

Radar:
Intellicast Reno
Intellicast San Francisco
PacNW
PacSW

Satellite Imagery:
4km IR Loop
16km IR Loop
Central California 1km Visible
GOES-W 12hr WV
GOES NA 24hr WV
Precipitable Water Loop
Past Week's Estimated Precipitation Totals

Forecasting Tools:
Day 1 QPF
Day 2 QPF
Day 3 QPF
Day 4-5 QPF
5 Day Total QPF
California Nevada River Forecast Center
300mb Jetstream Loop
NCEP & HPC Loops Page
Pennsylvania State University Electronic Map Wall
CPC 6-10 Day Outlook
CPC 8-14 Day Outlook

Remote Data:
NWS Reno Local Mountain Remote Data
NWS Surface Observations
Tahoe City
NASA/JPL-UCD Buoys
Truckee Airport
Central Sierra Snow Lab
Sugar Bowl
Squaw Valley GC
Ward Creek
Rubicon
Sonora Pass
Virginia Lakes
Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge
Mammoth Mountain Summit
Reno Airport

Snow Data:
Sierra Avalanche Center
Sierra Avalanche Center Snowpit Profiles and Field Observations
Snowpit Profile Key
Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
Avalanche.org
California Department of Water Resources
California Snotel Sites
Snotel Narrative
NOAA NOHRSC Interactive Snow Information
NWS Snowpack Analysis

Donner Summit Snowfall History

Brought to you by http://www.porterstahoe.com/

Sitting, Waiting....

2009-11-08T08:01:00.000-08:00

11/8/09 8:01am
Sitting and waiting here on a chilly Sunday morning. Temps bottomed out at 15F here in East Truckee this morning with a cool frost on all the trees, roofs, grass etc. The low sun angle of the early morning makes it look like winter. The only problem is that today should see a high temps of 50F, which is not so winter like.

The Teaser

Today's look at the forecast is pretty much the same teaser that we have had for a few weeks now. If the forecast from last Sunday played out for this past week, we might be squeaking out a few light footed turns in the backcountry or sliding some rails at Boreal. Problem is the jet stayed North and gave OR and WA a good shot of moisture. Mt Baker in WA has received over 2' in 3 days, Mt Bachelor in OR has received about a foot, and Mt Hood is ready to open this week with a settled snow dept of 30" @ mid mountain.

Back to Tahoe. If I were to base this week's forecast off today's 06zGFS, we would be gearing up. This model run shows a good shot of precip starting Wednesday night as a low drops down from the GoAK, with a reinforcing shot both Friday and Saturday. If this holds true, we could be in business. But this run is an outlier, as all the other models reach no consensus and are completely out of sync with each other. So basically, the forecast lacks confidence outside of 48hrs.

For Sunday-> Tuesday, high temps in the upper 40s/ low 50s in Truckee and upper 30s @8k. We will see some weak energy brush us by to the North again on Monday night, so a slight chance for a shower exists Monday night/ Tuesday morning. Another narrow band of moisture could produce a shower on Wednesday. Nighttime lows should be in the 20s in Truckee.

Looking beyond Thursday is any one's bet. Some models show more of the same, with the jet staying North into the PacNW. If the 06z becomes the big winner, late this week/ next weekend could be our first large snow producer. Regardless, it looks as if temps will drop a bit later this week so snow making efforts will be underway. Farther down the line, long term forecasters still foresee a large scale pattern shift due to the MJO and its effects on GWO (Global Wind Oscillation) which should amplify the pattern, with high pressure retrograding out to 150W and the storm door to open like the red carpet for the Oscars. The timing on this would be around 11/18 +/-. Stay tuned......

-PWG
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Current NWS Lake Tahoe Forecast
Lake Tahoe Backcountry Forecast
Lake Tahoe Recreational Forecast
Wind Chill Chart

Forecast Links:
National Weather Service Reno
National Weather Service Sacramento
NWS Reno Discussion
NWS Sacramento Discussion

Radar:
Intellicast Reno
Intellicast San Francisco
PacNW
PacSW

Satellite Imagery:
4km IR Loop
16km IR Loop
Central California 1km Visible
GOES-W 12hr WV
GOES NA 24hr WV
Precipitable Water Loop
Past Week's Estimated Precipitation Totals

Forecasting Tools:
Day 1 QPF
Day 2 QPF
Day 3 QPF
Day 4-5 QPF
5 Day Total QPF
California Nevada River Forecast Center
300mb Jetstream Loop
NCEP & HPC Loops Page
Pennsylvania State University Electronic Map Wall
CPC 6-10 Day Outlook
CPC 8-14 Day Outlook

Remote Data:
NWS Reno Local Mountain Remote Data
NWS Surface Observations
Tahoe City
NASA/JPL-UCD Buoys
Truckee Airport
Central Sierra Snow Lab
Sugar Bowl
Squaw Valley GC
Ward Creek
Rubicon
Sonora Pass
Virginia Lakes
Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge
Mammoth Mountain Summit
Reno Airport

Snow Data:
Sierra Avalanche Center
Sierra Avalanche Center Snowpit Profiles and Field Observations
Snowpit Profile Key
Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
Avalanche.org
California Department of Water Resources
California Snotel Sites
Snotel Narrative
NOAA NOHRSC Interactive Snow Information
NWS Snowpack Analysis

Donner Summit Snowfall History

Brought to you by http://www.porterstahoe.com/

UPDATE for Today

2009-11-06T11:06:00.000-08:00

11/6/09 11:06am UPDATE
Showers starting to develop over the Tahoe Sierra Crest this morning. I guess the dynamics associated with last night's weak system want to hang around for a while longer than previously thought. Snow levels are currently around 8k, as it is 34F @ High Camp @ Squaw, and 28F @ the top of Mt. Rose. Web cams show rain @ High Camp with snow on Siberia ridge, at Relay Peak on Mt Rose looks to be partly sunny. I am in East Truckee and the sun is out. Clouds are mainly hanging onto the highest elevations.

From 8:19am
Current weather systems streaming North of Tahoe, but the swell is right on. High Surf Advisory has been issued for most of the NorCal coast. Swell heights are running 17-19ft @ 17sec with breaking surf of ~20ft+/ for tonight through Sunday. The swell has been generated and focused on NorCal due to the strong low pressure situated in the GoAK. Jet stream is running along 40N into the West Coast, just North of Tahoe. This can be seen very well in the 28km WV loop.

Basically our weather systems are brushing by to our North by a few hundred miles. This leaves us with breezy conditions and cool temps. Today, highs in the 50s with winds gusting to 30mph, 50mph on the ridges. Cooler temps arrive tomorrow and through the weekend with high temps in the 40s. Should be mostly sunny/ breezy through Sunday afternoon. Lassen and Shasta have been and will continue to see light precip, but nothing of substance. In Tahoe, looks like we will be dry through to the middle of next week, when the forecast holds little confidence as to what will happen. Been a lot of talk on the interwebs as to a stormy period hitting Tahoe in mid/late Nov with abundant precip and cold temps. Fingers crossed.

-PWG
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Current NWS Lake Tahoe Forecast
Lake Tahoe Backcountry Forecast
Lake Tahoe Recreational Forecast
Wind Chill Chart

Forecast Links:
National Weather Service Reno
National Weather Service Sacramento
NWS Reno Discussion
NWS Sacramento Discussion

Radar:
Intellicast Reno
Intellicast San Francisco
PacNW
PacSW

Satellite Imagery:
4km IR Loop
16km IR Loop
Central California 1km Visible
GOES-W 12hr WV
GOES NA 24hr WV
Precipitable Water Loop
Past Week's Estimated Precipitation Totals

Forecasting Tools:
Day 1 QPF
Day 2 QPF
Day 3 QPF
Day 4-5 QPF
5 Day Total QPF
California Nevada River Forecast Center
300mb Jetstream Loop
NCEP & HPC Loops Page
Pennsylvania State University Electronic Map Wall
CPC 6-10 Day Outlook
CPC 8-14 Day Outlook

Remote Data:
NWS Reno Local Mountain Remote Data
NWS Surface Observations
Tahoe City
NASA/JPL-UCD Buoys
Truckee Airport
Central Sierra Snow Lab
Sugar Bowl
Squaw Valley GC
Ward Creek
Rubicon
Sonora Pass
Virginia Lakes
Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge
Mammoth Mountain Summit
Reno Airport

Snow Data:
Sierra Avalanche Center
Sierra Avalanche Center Snowpit Profiles and Field Observations
Snowpit Profile Key
Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
Avalanche.org
California Department of Water Resources
California Snotel Sites
Snotel Narrative
NOAA NOHRSC Interactive Snow Information
NWS Snowpack Analysis

Donner Summit Snowfall History

Brought to you by http://www.porterstahoe.com/

No snow, Go Surfing

2009-11-06T08:19:00.000-08:00

11/6/09 8:19am
Current weather systems streaming North of Tahoe, but the swell is right on. High Surf Advisory has been issued for most of the NorCal coast. Swell heights are running 17-19ft @ 17sec with breaking surf of ~20ft+/ for tonight through Sunday. The swell has been generated and focused on NorCal due to the strong low pressure situated in the GoAK. Jet stream is running along 40N into the West Coast, just North of Tahoe. This can be seen very well in the 28km WV loop.

Basically our weather systems are brushing by to our North by a few hundred miles. This leaves us with breezy conditions and cool temps. Today, highs in the 50s with winds gusting to 30mph, 50mph on the ridges. Cooler temps arrive tomorrow and through the weekend with high temps in the 40s. Should be mostly sunny/ breezy through Sunday afternoon. Lassen and Shasta have been and will continue to see light precip, but nothing of substance. In Tahoe, looks like we will be dry through to the middle of next week, when the forecast holds little confidence as to what will happen. Been a lot of talk on the interwebs as to a stormy period hitting Tahoe in mid/late Nov with abundant precip and cold temps. Fingers crossed.

-PWG
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Current NWS Lake Tahoe Forecast
Lake Tahoe Backcountry Forecast
Lake Tahoe Recreational Forecast
Wind Chill Chart

Forecast Links:
National Weather Service Reno
National Weather Service Sacramento
NWS Reno Discussion
NWS Sacramento Discussion

Radar:
Intellicast Reno
Intellicast San Francisco
PacNW
PacSW

Satellite Imagery:
4km IR Loop
16km IR Loop
Central California 1km Visible
GOES-W 12hr WV
GOES NA 24hr WV
Precipitable Water Loop
Past Week's Estimated Precipitation Totals

Forecasting Tools:
Day 1 QPF
Day 2 QPF
Day 3 QPF
Day 4-5 QPF
5 Day Total QPF
California Nevada River Forecast Center
300mb Jetstream Loop
NCEP & HPC Loops Page
Pennsylvania State University Electronic Map Wall
CPC 6-10 Day Outlook
CPC 8-14 Day Outlook

Remote Data:
NWS Reno Local Mountain Remote Data
NWS Surface Observations
Tahoe City
NASA/JPL-UCD Buoys
Truckee Airport
Central Sierra Snow Lab
Sugar Bowl
Squaw Valley GC
Ward Creek
Rubicon
Sonora Pass
Virginia Lakes
Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge
Mammoth Mountain Summit
Reno Airport

Snow Data:
Sierra Avalanche Center
Sierra Avalanche Center Snowpit Profiles and Field Observations
Snowpit Profile Key
Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
Avalanche.org
California Department of Water Resources
California Snotel Sites
Snotel Narrative
NOAA NOHRSC Interactive Snow Information
NWS Snowpack Analysis

Donner Summit Snowfall History

Brought to you by http://www.porterstahoe.com/

Warm, Windy-> Cooler, Windy, Showers

2009-11-05T07:00:00.000-08:00

11/5/09 7am
Headline sums it up. Current system splitting off the coast and moving into Oregon and the other half shooting down the West Coast towards Baja. Winds have increased along the crest to the 50mph range, and will continue to increase as the day progresses. Expect ridge winds to top out somewhere around 80mph tonight. This system will bring little more than clouds and wind. Bulk of moisture and dynamics are staying to our North, so we get the scraps of the tail end. There will be light showers tonight, with snow levels ~7500' +/-. Total QPF not more than .25" @ best. The good thing is that this first system is pushing the high pressure ridge East, which is essentially opening the door for what's next to come.

What's next to come? A whole lot of "would be great if the jet stream was a bit more South." Saturday will feature the next shot of energy to hit the West Coast, although cooler, there is less moisture and once again the bulk of the energy will be kept in OR. Saturday's storm isn't really anything. This weekend will be cooler, breezy and feature partly cloudy to mostly cloudy skies at times.

What's after Saturday? Maybe a system on Tuesday after a cooler Sunday/Monday. Confidence is low for early next week, so just enjoy the fall like weather over the next few days. There are a few resorts open in CA for your riding enjoyment. Boreal, Mt Rose, Mammoth (which will probably be open from the top on au natural, man made down low) Snow Summit and Bear in SoCal all have something to offer.

FYI- The word is that El Nino is gaining strength like the Guvinator on steroids. Good things to come??????

-PWG
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Current NWS Lake Tahoe Forecast
Lake Tahoe Backcountry Forecast
Lake Tahoe Recreational Forecast
Wind Chill Chart

Forecast Links:
National Weather Service Reno
National Weather Service Sacramento
NWS Reno Discussion
NWS Sacramento Discussion

Radar:
Intellicast Reno
Intellicast San Francisco
PacNW
PacSW

Satellite Imagery:
4km IR Loop
16km IR Loop
Central California 1km Visible
GOES-W 12hr WV
GOES NA 24hr WV
Precipitable Water Loop
Past Week's Estimated Precipitation Totals

Forecasting Tools:
Day 1 QPF
Day 2 QPF
Day 3 QPF
Day 4-5 QPF
5 Day Total QPF
California Nevada River Forecast Center
300mb Jetstream Loop
NCEP & HPC Loops Page
Pennsylvania State University Electronic Map Wall
CPC 6-10 Day Outlook
CPC 8-14 Day Outlook

Remote Data:
NWS Reno Local Mountain Remote Data
NWS Surface Observations
Tahoe City
NASA/JPL-UCD Buoys
Truckee Airport
Central Sierra Snow Lab
Sugar Bowl
Squaw Valley GC
Ward Creek
Rubicon
Sonora Pass
Virginia Lakes
Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge
Mammoth Mountain Summit
Reno Airport

Snow Data:
Sierra Avalanche Center
Sierra Avalanche Center Snowpit Profiles and Field Observations
Snowpit Profile Key
Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
Avalanche.org
California Department of Water Resources
California Snotel Sites
Snotel Narrative
NOAA NOHRSC Interactive Snow Information
NWS Snowpack Analysis

Donner Summit Snowfall History

Brought to you by http://www.porterstahoe.com/

Fizzle

2009-11-04T10:52:00.000-08:00

11/4/09 10:53am
Today will be much like yesterday, plus a bit more of a breeze and temps a few degrees cooler.

Looking at the potential storms to effect Tahoe over the next few days, not good news coming from the models. As for Thursday's system, looking more like a classic "more blow than snow" scenario. Winds will increase later Wednesday and especially Thursday and will pretty much stay breezy through the weekend. The ridges of course will see the highest winds, around 75mph by Thursday night, backing down into the 50mph range by Friday and into the weekend. Notice I haven't mentioned precip/ snow yet. Well there is a reason for that. Don't get excited because you will only be let down. Current HPC QPF for the Tahoe Sierra Crest is maybe .25". So for Thursday night, a splitting system, the bulk of the energy is going to the PacNW and the other shot going towards Baja, we will get little moisture, wimpy dynamics and all around a weak system. Snow levels for Thursday night-> Friday system look to stay ~7500' +/-. Nothing substantial regardless. Friday will feature the chance for showers and wind & clouds.

Saturday's system I mentioned in the last post looks now to be all but non-existent. Models have trended all energy North of Tahoe leaving us with a few showers at best and warmer temps. Things could revert back to how we saw it yesterday, but not to sure about that. There is a large amount of uncertainty regarding this weekend's precip chances. Best chance for some measurable precip might be next Tuesday? With the massive amount of uncertainty with the forecast, I cannot settle on a definite forecast moving forward. The main take away is cooler, unsettled weather with a chance of showers/ snow at higher elevations.

Temps will slowly drop over the next few days, but not as cold as we thought yesterday. Expect temps to slide through the 50s into the 40s in Truckee by Saturday, and mid 30s @ 8k.

More later. Mammoth opens again this weekend. Boreal, Mt. Rose, Snow Summit and Bear in SoCal have some man made for your sliding action.

-PWG
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Current NWS Lake Tahoe Forecast
Lake Tahoe Backcountry Forecast
Lake Tahoe Recreational Forecast
Wind Chill Chart

Forecast Links:
National Weather Service Reno
National Weather Service Sacramento
NWS Reno Discussion
NWS Sacramento Discussion

Radar:
Intellicast Reno
Intellicast San Francisco
PacNW
PacSW

Satellite Imagery:
4km IR Loop
16km IR Loop
Central California 1km Visible
GOES-W 12hr WV
GOES NA 24hr WV
Precipitable Water Loop
Past Week's Estimated Precipitation Totals

Forecasting Tools:
Day 1 QPF
Day 2 QPF
Day 3 QPF
Day 4-5 QPF
5 Day Total QPF
California Nevada River Forecast Center
300mb Jetstream Loop
NCEP & HPC Loops Page
Pennsylvania State University Electronic Map Wall
CPC 6-10 Day Outlook
CPC 8-14 Day Outlook

Remote Data:
NWS Reno Local Mountain Remote Data
NWS Surface Observations
Tahoe City
NASA/JPL-UCD Buoys
Truckee Airport
Central Sierra Snow Lab
Sugar Bowl
Squaw Valley GC
Ward Creek
Rubicon
Sonora Pass
Virginia Lakes
Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge
Mammoth Mountain Summit
Reno Airport

Snow Data:
Sierra Avalanche Center
Sierra Avalanche Center Snowpit Profiles and Field Observations
Snowpit Profile Key
Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
Avalanche.org
California Department of Water Resources
California Snotel Sites
Snotel Narrative
NOAA NOHRSC Interactive Snow Information
NWS Snowpack Analysis

Donner Summit Snowfall History

Brought to you by http://www.porterstahoe.com/

Cool, Wet Weekend....maybe?

2009-11-03T10:32:00.000-08:00

11/3/09 10:32am
Warm one out there today with a forecast high of 69F in Truckee. Feels not so much like November. But alas a pattern change is on the way, although it won't be the kick off to the ski season.

The models are showing a quicker time frame for this weekend's weather. Currently high pressure situated at the dateline will shift East over the next few days. By Thursday it will be around 160-150W, which is perfect for wet weather in Tahoe. The ridge should stay there for 24-36hrs before a continuation of its eastern progression, which will eventually put the ridge back over the Central West Coast by Monday. For the time frames of Thursday night and again on Saturday, we should see organized precip in the region, but low QPF. Right now we are looking at about .5" H2O on the Western side of the crest. Not a lot, and we will be on the Southern edge of the jet, so snow levels will remain fairly high.

So, for today and Wednesday, sunny and warm. Nuff said. Thursday will feature increasing clouds and winds (possibly strong winds) and precip by evening. Snow levels on Thursday night will start out ~8k and drop after the cold front. Saturday's precip *should* be more of a snow variety but there is still low confidence in the forecast. Expect temps in the low 40s in Truckee this weekend, with low 30s @ 8k.

More to come as we get closer.

-PWG
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Current NWS Lake Tahoe Forecast
Lake Tahoe Backcountry Forecast
Lake Tahoe Recreational Forecast
Wind Chill Chart

Forecast Links:
National Weather Service Reno
National Weather Service Sacramento
NWS Reno Discussion
NWS Sacramento Discussion

Radar:
Intellicast Reno
Intellicast San Francisco
PacNW
PacSW

Satellite Imagery:
4km IR Loop
16km IR Loop
Central California 1km Visible
GOES-W 12hr WV
GOES NA 24hr WV
Precipitable Water Loop
Past Week's Estimated Precipitation Totals

Forecasting Tools:
Day 1 QPF
Day 2 QPF
Day 3 QPF
Day 4-5 QPF
5 Day Total QPF
California Nevada River Forecast Center
300mb Jetstream Loop
NCEP & HPC Loops Page
Pennsylvania State University Electronic Map Wall
CPC 6-10 Day Outlook
CPC 8-14 Day Outlook

Remote Data:
NWS Reno Local Mountain Remote Data
NWS Surface Observations
Tahoe City
NASA/JPL-UCD Buoys
Truckee Airport
Central Sierra Snow Lab
Sugar Bowl
Squaw Valley GC
Ward Creek
Rubicon
Sonora Pass
Virginia Lakes
Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge
Mammoth Mountain Summit
Reno Airport

Snow Data:
Sierra Avalanche Center
Sierra Avalanche Center Snowpit Profiles and Field Observations
Snowpit Profile Key
Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
Avalanche.org
California Department of Water Resources
California Snotel Sites
Snotel Narrative
NOAA NOHRSC Interactive Snow Information
NWS Snowpack Analysis

Donner Summit Snowfall History

Brought to you by http://www.porterstahoe.com/

Can I get a pattern change?

2009-11-02T17:00:00.000-08:00

11/2/09 5pm
Plain and simple the weather is just too nice. I love Tahoe for the 300+days of sun, but let's get some clouds up in this b^t$#!

Current forecast discussions and model forecasts show a breaking down of the ridge later this week/ Friday with some precip for the weekend. System right now looks to come in warm with snow levels 7500'+, but cooling through the weekend so maybe some light snow at lake level by Sunday. No huge amounts of precip coming, but anything is better than sunny & warm. As we get closer I will bring the low down. For now, enjoy the heat. Forecast high in Truckee for Tuesday is 69F.

Bigger picture- El Nino seems to be strengthening in a robust fashion in the Pacific, the CPC has above normal precip slated for CA the three months NDJ, and we are just due for a good winter. Rally caps on, wash the car, wash the kids, plan some flowers, burn something other than the forest. Time to get things rolling.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Current NWS Lake Tahoe Forecast
Lake Tahoe Backcountry Forecast
Lake Tahoe Recreational Forecast
Wind Chill Chart

Forecast Links:
National Weather Service Reno
National Weather Service Sacramento
NWS Reno Discussion
NWS Sacramento Discussion

Radar:
Intellicast Reno
Intellicast San Francisco
PacNW
PacSW

Satellite Imagery:
4km IR Loop
16km IR Loop
Central California 1km Visible
GOES-W 12hr WV
GOES NA 24hr WV
Precipitable Water Loop
Past Week's Estimated Precipitation Totals

Forecasting Tools:
Day 1 QPF
Day 2 QPF
Day 3 QPF
Day 4-5 QPF
5 Day Total QPF
California Nevada River Forecast Center
300mb Jetstream Loop
NCEP & HPC Loops Page
Pennsylvania State University Electronic Map Wall
CPC 6-10 Day Outlook
CPC 8-14 Day Outlook

Remote Data:
NWS Reno Local Mountain Remote Data
NWS Surface Observations
Tahoe City
NASA/JPL-UCD Buoys
Truckee Airport
Central Sierra Snow Lab
Sugar Bowl
Squaw Valley GC
Ward Creek
Rubicon
Sonora Pass
Virginia Lakes
Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge
Mammoth Mountain Summit
Reno Airport

Snow Data:
Sierra Avalanche Center
Sierra Avalanche Center Snowpit Profiles and Field Observations
Snowpit Profile Key
Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
Avalanche.org
California Department of Water Resources
California Snotel Sites
Snotel Narrative
NOAA NOHRSC Interactive Snow Information
NWS Snowpack Analysis

Donner Summit Snowfall History

Brought to you by http://www.porterstahoe.com/

600 Miles

2009-10-28T17:47:00.000-07:00

10/28/09 5:47 pm
What a difference 600 miles would make. 600 miles is the distance we missed out on what will now be two rounds of cold, moisture laden cold fronts that are bringing substantial snows to WA,OR,WY,UT & CO. If the ridge of high pressure was forming, strengthening 600 miles more West, the jet stream would have steered all this energy into CA. We would be skiing & riding for sure, on au natural. But alas, 600 miles too far East and we are sitting with snow showers and soon to be warming temps.

For the next few days and into next week, high pressure will dominate our weather pattern bringing mostly sunny to partly cloudy at times skies, temps getting back to seasonal normals and a pretty strong inversion. Temps at mountain tops over the next few days will rise more dramatically than the valleys. Expect highs getting back to the 50s & 60s in Truckee/ North Tahoe over the weekend as temps at 8k get back into the 50s. Morning lows in the 20s in Truckee/ 30s at 8k.

Thursday morning's forecasted low temp in Truckee is 7F. That's chilly. Bundle up or find someone you like to sleep with.

Next chance for weather is Nov 8ish. We will see how that pans out. Keep it sleazy.

PWG

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Current NWS Lake Tahoe Forecast
Lake Tahoe Backcountry Forecast
Lake Tahoe Recreational Forecast
Wind Chill Chart

Forecast Links:
National Weather Service Reno
National Weather Service Sacramento
NWS Reno Discussion
NWS Sacramento Discussion

Radar:
Intellicast Reno
Intellicast San Francisco
PacNW
PacSW

Satellite Imagery:
4km IR Loop
16km IR Loop
Central California 1km Visible
GOES-W 12hr WV
GOES NA 24hr WV
Precipitable Water Loop
Past Week's Estimated Precipitation Totals

Forecasting Tools:
Day 1 QPF
Day 2 QPF
Day 3 QPF
Day 4-5 QPF
5 Day Total QPF
California Nevada River Forecast Center
300mb Jetstream Loop
NCEP & HPC Loops Page
Pennsylvania State University Electronic Map Wall
CPC 6-10 Day Outlook
CPC 8-14 Day Outlook

Remote Data:
NWS Reno Local Mountain Remote Data
NWS Surface Observations
Tahoe City
NASA/JPL-UCD Buoys
Truckee Airport
Central Sierra Snow Lab
Sugar Bowl
Squaw Valley GC
Ward Creek
Rubicon
Sonora Pass
Virginia Lakes
Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge
Mammoth Mountain Summit
Reno Airport

Snow Data:
Sierra Avalanche Center
Sierra Avalanche Center Snowpit Profiles and Field Observations
Snowpit Profile Key
Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
Avalanche.org
California Department of Water Resources
California Snotel Sites
Snotel Narrative
NOAA NOHRSC Interactive Snow Information
NWS Snowpack Analysis

Donner Summit Snowfall History

Brought to you by http://www.porterstahoe.com/

Bunk

2009-10-25T18:37:00.000-07:00

10/25/09 6:37 pm
Forecast is still on track for a major cold front to blow through the region Monday night into Tuesday. Big headlines are lots-o-wind and dropping temps. Monday will be fairly nice with highs in the 50s, but by Monday afternoon/ evening it will become downright windy in Tahoe. Ridge winds to 90mph, and gusts in town to 40mph. There is the possibility of snow/snow showers Monday night, Tuesday and even Wednesday morning South of Lake Tahoe in the Eastern Sierra. Current models show the low trending a bit further West, so more moisture will be available as the front passes through. A dusting at 6k, and a few inches up top seems to be the call. The conditions are right, so with a bit more moisture we will see those snowfall totals climb a bit more. I am not seeing anything substantial right now, but we'll see what tomorrow's guidance has. Temperatures for Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday will struggle to make it out of the low 40s in Truckee, upper 20s @ 8k. Low temps will be in the 20s.

As for the potential storm for this weekend.......not good news. Yesterday's model runs looked to be telling the tale we all want. Today, natasomuch. The jury is still out for this weekend. I am still holding onto some sort of precip event, although it doesn't look to be the season opener we might well have gotten. Regardless of what does happen, it will be cold enough this week for the snowguns to run. We will get some natural snow. Thursday and Friday look to be warm, and the weekend is still a toss up.

PWG

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Current NWS Lake Tahoe Forecast
Lake Tahoe Backcountry Forecast
Lake Tahoe Recreational Forecast
Wind Chill Chart

Forecast Links:
National Weather Service Reno
National Weather Service Sacramento
NWS Reno Discussion
NWS Sacramento Discussion

Radar:
Intellicast Reno
Intellicast San Francisco
PacNW
PacSW

Satellite Imagery:
4km IR Loop
16km IR Loop
Central California 1km Visible
GOES-W 12hr WV
GOES NA 24hr WV
Precipitable Water Loop
Past Week's Estimated Precipitation Totals

Forecasting Tools:
Day 1 QPF
Day 2 QPF
Day 3 QPF
Day 4-5 QPF
5 Day Total QPF
California Nevada River Forecast Center
300mb Jetstream Loop
NCEP & HPC Loops Page
Pennsylvania State University Electronic Map Wall
CPC 6-10 Day Outlook
CPC 8-14 Day Outlook

Remote Data:
NWS Reno Local Mountain Remote Data
NWS Surface Observations
Tahoe City
NASA/JPL-UCD Buoys
Truckee Airport
Central Sierra Snow Lab
Sugar Bowl
Squaw Valley GC
Ward Creek
Rubicon
Sonora Pass
Virginia Lakes
Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge
Mammoth Mountain Summit
Reno Airport

Snow Data:
Sierra Avalanche Center
Sierra Avalanche Center Snowpit Profiles and Field Observations
Snowpit Profile Key
Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
Avalanche.org
California Department of Water Resources
California Snotel Sites
Snotel Narrative
NOAA NOHRSC Interactive Snow Information
NWS Snowpack Analysis

Donner Summit Snowfall History

Brought to you by http://www.porterstahoe.com/

Rally Caps On! Bet On The Wildcard

2009-10-24T08:20:00.000-07:00

10/24/09 8:20am
Piggy backing on my post from yesterday, it seems that the wildcard might have its rally cap on. I mentioned the 10/22 18z & 10/23 12z runs were outliers in showing a follow up cold front later next week that was cold and moist. Yesterday even the NWS Reno guys called these model runs "slop." Well, today, all GFS runs have come around for what could become a progressive pattern for CA. Today's 00z run is the most bullish with a series of storms coming to CA through the next 14days, starting the 29th/30th. We are still a few days out, but now that NWS Reno has started to adjust their long term forecast, and the models coming into somewhat better agreement, we will have to wait and see what happens. It could be the beginning.

The forecast for this weekend is still warm, sunny/ partly cloudy with some afternoon breezes. Expect above normal temps through Monday. On Tuesday the inside slider dropping in from the PacNW will drop temps below normal (down right chilly). Limited moisture Monday night and Tuesday will provide snow showers to the region. Winds will be persistent through the early half of the week.

Past Wednesday confidence is low but gaining in a possible series of colder, moist storms for the Sierra. Stay tuned............

PWG

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Current NWS Lake Tahoe Forecast
Lake Tahoe Backcountry Forecast
Lake Tahoe Recreational Forecast
Wind Chill Chart

Forecast Links:
National Weather Service Reno
National Weather Service Sacramento
NWS Reno Discussion
NWS Sacramento Discussion

Radar:
Intellicast Reno
Intellicast San Francisco
PacNW
PacSW

Satellite Imagery:
4km IR Loop
16km IR Loop
Central California 1km Visible
GOES-W 12hr WV
GOES NA 24hr WV
Precipitable Water Loop
Past Week's Estimated Precipitation Totals

Forecasting Tools:
Day 1 QPF
Day 2 QPF
Day 3 QPF
Day 4-5 QPF
5 Day Total QPF
California Nevada River Forecast Center
300mb Jetstream Loop
NCEP & HPC Loops Page
Pennsylvania State University Electronic Map Wall
CPC 6-10 Day Outlook
CPC 8-14 Day Outlook

Remote Data:
NWS Reno Local Mountain Remote Data
NWS Surface Observations
Tahoe City
NASA/JPL-UCD Buoys
Truckee Airport
Central Sierra Snow Lab
Sugar Bowl
Squaw Valley GC
Ward Creek
Rubicon
Sonora Pass
Virginia Lakes
Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge
Mammoth Mountain Summit
Reno Airport

Snow Data:
Sierra Avalanche Center
Sierra Avalanche Center Snowpit Profiles and Field Observations
Snowpit Profile Key
Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
Avalanche.org
California Department of Water Resources
California Snotel Sites
Snotel Narrative
NOAA NOHRSC Interactive Snow Information
NWS Snowpack Analysis

Donner Summit Snowfall History

Brought to you by http://www.porterstahoe.com/

Warm Weekend Then Cold Blast

2009-10-23T10:00:00.000-07:00

10/23/09 10am
Pretty spectacular weekend setting up for Tahoe. High pressure will dominate producing a slight N-NE surface gradient which will keep a slight breeze going. High temps in the 60s, a few high clouds but mostly sunny. Morning lows not even that cold, just below freezing. With little snow cover and aspen trees showing their last flash of color it is a great time for a hike or bike. Mountain biking is all time still, as the lower sun angle has yet to dry out the trails from last/ this weeks' rain and snow. Get out and enjoy because things are going to change Monday.

A lot of Pacific energy is poised to slam into BC and the PacNW over the next few days. Tahoe will see the effects of the tail end of the cold front, but those effect will be felt for sure. We won't see much in the way of precip, but we will get wind and much colder temps than we have had. Monday winds will increase from the West as a cold front drops down the West Coast. By Tuesday low pressure will set up over the Great Basin. Monday night and Tuesday Tahoe will most likely see a few snow showers, but with no significant moisture for us, accumulations will be non-existent to light. Behind the cold front temps will take a digger. Highs in the 60s this weekend will drop to the 50s on Monday and then into the low 40s on Tuesday/ Wednesday. At 8k highs in the 50s this weekend will top out in the low/mid 30s by Wednesday. It will stay breezy at all elevations Monday/ Tuesday/ Wednesday. The cold temps will allow for a shot at snowmaking for a lot of local resorts. If you are looking for the real stuff, head East to UT/WY/CO. Those regions will see good dumps of the frozen white. Of note, morning lows Wed/ Thurs will be in the low 20s & teens in Truckee.

Past Wednesday it looks as if the PNA will turn positive meaning more sun and warm temps for the Sierra. Although yesterday's 18z and today's 12z GFS show a strong cold front and lots of moisture headed our direction on/around 10/30. The problem with this fantasy scenario is that these two model runs are considered outliers. Let's go wildcard! The chances of warm calm weather far outweigh the possibility of a storm to wind out Oct and usher in Nov.

I'll keep my eyes on it.

PWG

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Current NWS Lake Tahoe Forecast
Lake Tahoe Backcountry Forecast
Lake Tahoe Recreational Forecast
Wind Chill Chart

Forecast Links:
National Weather Service Reno
National Weather Service Sacramento
NWS Reno Discussion
NWS Sacramento Discussion

Radar:
Intellicast Reno
Intellicast San Francisco
PacNW
PacSW

Satellite Imagery:
4km IR Loop
16km IR Loop
Central California 1km Visible
GOES-W 12hr WV
GOES NA 24hr WV
Precipitable Water Loop
Past Week's Estimated Precipitation Totals

Forecasting Tools:
Day 1 QPF
Day 2 QPF
Day 3 QPF
Day 4-5 QPF
5 Day Total QPF
California Nevada River Forecast Center
300mb Jetstream Loop
NCEP & HPC Loops Page
Pennsylvania State University Electronic Map Wall
CPC 6-10 Day Outlook
CPC 8-14 Day Outlook

Remote Data:
NWS Reno Local Mountain Remote Data
NWS Surface Observations
Tahoe City
NASA/JPL-UCD Buoys
Truckee Airport
Central Sierra Snow Lab
Sugar Bowl
Squaw Valley GC
Ward Creek
Rubicon
Sonora Pass
Virginia Lakes
Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge
Mammoth Mountain Summit
Reno Airport

Snow Data:
Sierra Avalanche Center
Sierra Avalanche Center Snowpit Profiles and Field Observations
Snowpit Profile Key
Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
Avalanche.org
California Department of Water Resources
California Snotel Sites
Snotel Narrative
NOAA NOHRSC Interactive Snow Information
NWS Snowpack Analysis

Donner Summit Snowfall History

Brought to you by http://www.porterstahoe.com/

Waiting....

2009-10-21T17:44:00.000-07:00

10/21/09 5:44pm
Perfect fall weather hanging on as we sit waiting for the first real dump in the Tahoe Basin. There is a lot of energy out in the Pacific, and the remnants of Typhoon Lupit will become extra tropical, although the PacJet will steer all of this into BC and the PacNW. Basically expect the warm, sunny (partly cloudy at times) conditions to continue through the weekend. Our weather will turn much colder, with a small chance of light precip Monday night, as we head into Tuesday of next week as a strong trough establishes itself over the inter-mountain West. This will provide a N-NE flow for us which will bring the backdoor cold front. Details of how cold it will get still need to be worked out, but high temps in the 60s through the weekend will be replaced by high temps in the upper 40s by Tuesday in Truckee.

Enjoy this weekend. The colors are great and everything is still accessible.

PWG

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Current NWS Lake Tahoe Forecast
Lake Tahoe Backcountry Forecast
Lake Tahoe Recreational Forecast
Wind Chill Chart

Forecast Links:
National Weather Service Reno
National Weather Service Sacramento
NWS Reno Discussion
NWS Sacramento Discussion

Radar:
Intellicast Reno
Intellicast San Francisco
PacNW
PacSW

Satellite Imagery:
4km IR Loop
16km IR Loop
Central California 1km Visible
GOES-W 12hr WV
GOES NA 24hr WV
Precipitable Water Loop
Past Week's Estimated Precipitation Totals

Forecasting Tools:
Day 1 QPF
Day 2 QPF
Day 3 QPF
Day 4-5 QPF
5 Day Total QPF
California Nevada River Forecast Center
300mb Jetstream Loop
NCEP & HPC Loops Page
Pennsylvania State University Electronic Map Wall
CPC 6-10 Day Outlook
CPC 8-14 Day Outlook

Remote Data:
NWS Reno Local Mountain Remote Data
NWS Surface Observations
Tahoe City
NASA/JPL-UCD Buoys
Truckee Airport
Central Sierra Snow Lab
Sugar Bowl
Squaw Valley GC
Ward Creek
Rubicon
Sonora Pass
Virginia Lakes
Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge
Mammoth Mountain Summit
Reno Airport

Snow Data:
Sierra Avalanche Center
Sierra Avalanche Center Snowpit Profiles and Field Observations
Snowpit Profile Key
Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
Avalanche.org
California Department of Water Resources
California Snotel Sites
Snotel Narrative
NOAA NOHRSC Interactive Snow Information
NWS Snowpack Analysis

Donner Summit Snowfall History

Brought to you by http://www.porterstahoe.com/

Mellow

2009-10-20T16:40:00.000-07:00

10/20/09 4:40pm
High pressure building into the region as yesterday's energy shifts East away from the Sierra. For the rest of the week and into the weekend high pressure will dominate with slightly above normal temps. Dry and warm is the call with high temps ~mid 60s in Truckee, mid 50s @ 8k, and morning lows around freezing, upper 30s @8k due to the intensifying inversion and light winds. The inversion will not get too strong due to energy moving inshore into the PacNW which will bring some breeze to Tahoe and some high clouds over the next few days.

Longer range, questions arise after the weekend as to what will happen to Typhoon Lupit in the Western Pacific. There is a slight chance of the moisture and energy becoming extra tropical, which could get caught up in the PacJet bringing the West Coast of the USA another shot of heavy precip. Time will tell......

Enjoy the perfect fall weather, fall colors and all time mountain biking around the Tahoe Basin.

PWG

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Current NWS Lake Tahoe Forecast
Lake Tahoe Backcountry Forecast
Lake Tahoe Recreational Forecast
Wind Chill Chart

Forecast Links:
National Weather Service Reno
National Weather Service Sacramento
NWS Reno Discussion
NWS Sacramento Discussion

Radar:
Intellicast Reno
Intellicast San Francisco
PacNW
PacSW

Satellite Imagery:
4km IR Loop
16km IR Loop
Central California 1km Visible
GOES-W 12hr WV
GOES NA 24hr WV
Precipitable Water Loop
Past Week's Estimated Precipitation Totals

Forecasting Tools:
Day 1 QPF
Day 2 QPF
Day 3 QPF
Day 4-5 QPF
5 Day Total QPF
California Nevada River Forecast Center
300mb Jetstream Loop
NCEP & HPC Loops Page
Pennsylvania State University Electronic Map Wall
CPC 6-10 Day Outlook
CPC 8-14 Day Outlook

Remote Data:
NWS Reno Local Mountain Remote Data
NWS Surface Observations
Tahoe City
NASA/JPL-UCD Buoys
Truckee Airport
Central Sierra Snow Lab
Sugar Bowl
Squaw Valley GC
Ward Creek
Rubicon
Sonora Pass
Virginia Lakes
Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge
Mammoth Mountain Summit
Reno Airport

Snow Data:
Sierra Avalanche Center
Sierra Avalanche Center Snowpit Profiles and Field Observations
Snowpit Profile Key
Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
Avalanche.org
California Department of Water Resources
California Snotel Sites
Snotel Narrative
NOAA NOHRSC Interactive Snow Information
NWS Snowpack Analysis

Donner Summit Snowfall History

Brought to you by http://www.porterstahoe.com/

Snow Showers Today

2009-10-19T08:21:00.000-07:00

10/19/09 8:21am
Cold front passage with some good dynamics will squeeze out some rain and snow showers today. Expect a few inches at best along the ridges and at pass level. Snow levels will remain ~7k or higher. Temps today are some 10-15F colder, so highs will be in the low 50s. Winds will be strong on the ridges and breezy in town today. Ridging starts to rebuild over the region tomorrow for fair weather and warmer temps in the 60s for the rest of the week. Next chance for some precip looks to be just at the end or after the weekend. Enjoy!

PWG

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Current NWS Lake Tahoe Forecast
Lake Tahoe Backcountry Forecast
Lake Tahoe Recreational Forecast
Wind Chill Chart

Forecast Links:
National Weather Service Reno
National Weather Service Sacramento
NWS Reno Discussion
NWS Sacramento Discussion

Radar:
Intellicast Reno
Intellicast San Francisco
PacNW
PacSW

Satellite Imagery:
4km IR Loop
16km IR Loop
Central California 1km Visible
GOES-W 12hr WV
GOES NA 24hr WV
Precipitable Water Loop
Past Week's Estimated Precipitation Totals

Forecasting Tools:
Day 1 QPF
Day 2 QPF
Day 3 QPF
Day 4-5 QPF
5 Day Total QPF
California Nevada River Forecast Center
300mb Jetstream Loop
NCEP & HPC Loops Page
Pennsylvania State University Electronic Map Wall
CPC 6-10 Day Outlook
CPC 8-14 Day Outlook

Remote Data:
NWS Reno Local Mountain Remote Data
NWS Surface Observations
Tahoe City
NASA/JPL-UCD Buoys
Truckee Airport
Central Sierra Snow Lab
Sugar Bowl
Squaw Valley GC
Ward Creek
Rubicon
Sonora Pass
Virginia Lakes
Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge
Mammoth Mountain Summit
Reno Airport

Snow Data:
Sierra Avalanche Center
Sierra Avalanche Center Snowpit Profiles and Field Observations
Snowpit Profile Key
Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
Avalanche.org
California Department of Water Resources
California Snotel Sites
Snotel Narrative
NOAA NOHRSC Interactive Snow Information
NWS Snowpack Analysis

Donner Summit Snowfall History

Brought to you by http://www.porterstahoe.com/

It Smells Good

2009-10-17T10:00:00.000-07:00

10/17/09 10:00am
You know what is nice about Tahoe when it rains hard? It smells good. The odor of wet pine emanating from the forest is just a great smell. No matter where you go, now that the ground is wet, it just smells and feels good.

So, last weeks storm dropped 7.8 billion gallons of water into Lake Tahoe, raising the surface level a bit over 2". The peaks around Lake Tahoe received anywhere from a few inches to a few feet of new, wet, sloppy snow. Since the storm has past, the temperatures at elevation have stayed above freezing, so a slow melt is underway. This is all good for future storms. The cold weather of a few weeks ago allowed the ground to cool after the long summer sun. A few small storms and now this big one, have moistened the ground. Cool, wet ground is perfect foundation for a strong winter snowpack.

As you have heard Mammoth received 1-6ft of new snow depending on elevation. As of today they are running lifts top to bottom, a start to their season they have only once achieved earlier (1994). Click here to see photos of Mammoth taken on Thursday. What they reveal is the early season snow instability that can happen even on the first storm of the year.

We don't have to worry about that much right now in Tahoe, but I must say that the mountain biking right now is all time.

As for the weather, another nice above average temperature day today. Sunday will be windy with increasing clouds. Monday a cold front blows through bringing colder temps and rain/ snow showers by evening. Models are trending a little stronger this morning, so we might see a few inches of snowfall above 7000' by Tuesday morning. High temps Sun/ Mon/ Tues in Truckee will be in the upper 50s, and @ 8k 40s.

Looking at ~10/27 for our next good storm possibility........

PWG

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Current NWS Lake Tahoe Forecast
Lake Tahoe Backcountry Forecast
Lake Tahoe Recreational Forecast
Wind Chill Chart

Forecast Links:
National Weather Service Reno
National Weather Service Sacramento
NWS Reno Discussion
NWS Sacramento Discussion

Radar:
Intellicast Reno
Intellicast San Francisco
PacNW
PacSW

Satellite Imagery:
4km IR Loop
16km IR Loop
Central California 1km Visible
GOES-W 12hr WV
GOES NA 24hr WV
Precipitable Water Loop
Past Week's Estimated Precipitation Totals

Forecasting Tools:
Day 1 QPF
Day 2 QPF
Day 3 QPF
Day 4-5 QPF
5 Day Total QPF
California Nevada River Forecast Center
300mb Jetstream Loop
NCEP & HPC Loops Page
Pennsylvania State University Electronic Map Wall
CPC 6-10 Day Outlook
CPC 8-14 Day Outlook

Remote Data:
NWS Reno Local Mountain Remote Data
NWS Surface Observations
Tahoe City
NASA/JPL-UCD Buoys
Truckee Airport
Central Sierra Snow Lab
Sugar Bowl
Squaw Valley GC
Ward Creek
Rubicon
Sonora Pass
Virginia Lakes
Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge
Mammoth Mountain Summit
Reno Airport

Snow Data:
Sierra Avalanche Center
Sierra Avalanche Center Snowpit Profiles and Field Observations
Snowpit Profile Key
Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
Avalanche.org
California Department of Water Resources
California Snotel Sites
Snotel Narrative
NOAA NOHRSC Interactive Snow Information
NWS Snowpack Analysis

Donner Summit Snowfall History

Brought to you by http://www.porterstahoe.com/

A Good Thumping

2009-10-11T07:47:00.000-07:00

10/11/09 7:47am
Forecast on track for a major storm Tuesday->Wednesday. Confidence is high in regards to a break through of the westerlies which will allow for the remnants of Typhoon Melor to phase with an upper low retrograding out of Canada in response to high pressure building over AK. This all provides for a firehose of moisture into CA.

What this means for Tahoe is winds and clouds will increase on Monday. Precip should start to bank up against the Sierra later in the day Monday. Tuesday will feature heavy rains, snow above 8500' and howling winds. Wind gusts have the potential to reach 120-140mph along the Sierra Crest. HPC 5 day precip forecast shows storm totals of 6.8" just West of the Northern Sierra Crest and 6.6" just West of the Central Sierra Crest. The Tahoe Basin could receive 2-3" of rainfall. The higher terrain, above 9000' from South Lake Tahoe to Mammoth could see heavy snows, upwards of 60" of snow by Thursday. Of course, I am stating that this sort of snowfall accumulation will be above 10,000' where it should be snow pretty much for the duration of the event. We will have to see if that sort of major accumulation pans out, but it is possible.

Expect temps around lake level and in Truckee to top out in the low to mid 50s on Tuesday/ Wednesday while high temps around 8000' in the mid 30s.

There is a chance of snow levels dropping to ~7000-7500' late in the event, so a few inches of snow at pass level is in the cards.

More to come as we get closer to show time.........

PWG

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Current NWS Lake Tahoe Forecast
Lake Tahoe Backcountry Forecast
Lake Tahoe Recreational Forecast
Wind Chill Chart

Forecast Links:
National Weather Service Reno
National Weather Service Sacramento
NWS Reno Discussion
NWS Sacramento Discussion

Radar:
Intellicast Reno
Intellicast San Francisco
PacNW
PacSW

Satellite Imagery:
4km IR Loop
16km IR Loop
Central California 1km Visible
GOES-W 12hr WV
GOES NA 24hr WV
Precipitable Water Loop
Past Week's Estimated Precipitation Totals

Forecasting Tools:
Day 1 QPF
Day 2 QPF
Day 3 QPF
Day 4-5 QPF
5 Day Total QPF
California Nevada River Forecast Center
300mb Jetstream Loop
NCEP & HPC Loops Page
Pennsylvania State University Electronic Map Wall
CPC 6-10 Day Outlook
CPC 8-14 Day Outlook

Remote Data:
NWS Reno Local Mountain Remote Data
NWS Surface Observations
Tahoe City
NASA/JPL-UCD Buoys
Truckee Airport
Central Sierra Snow Lab
Sugar Bowl
Squaw Valley GC
Ward Creek
Rubicon
Sonora Pass
Virginia Lakes
Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge
Mammoth Mountain Summit
Reno Airport

Snow Data:
Sierra Avalanche Center
Sierra Avalanche Center Snowpit Profiles and Field Observations
Snowpit Profile Key
Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
Avalanche.org
California Department of Water Resources
California Snotel Sites
Snotel Narrative
NOAA NOHRSC Interactive Snow Information
NWS Snowpack Analysis

Donner Summit Snowfall History

Brought to you by http://www.porterstahoe.com/

Significant Precipitation Event Next Week

2009-10-09T09:30:00.000-07:00

10/9/09 9:30am
A major pattern change and the Sierra's first major precipitation event are on the horizon. Before this happens, we will experience a beautiful mid-fall weekend with temps at their seasonal normals and cloudless skies. The aspen trees are all sorts of colors right now so it's a great time to get out and see them.

Looking at next week......the remnants of Typhoon Melor will phase with a trans-Pacific jet stream that will stretch straight from China to San Francisco, pretty much in a straight line the whole way, and bring ridiculous amounts of moisture into the Sierra Nevada. Models have some around into high confidence of this scenario playing out. Of note, when the jet stream straightens like this over the Pacific, CA usually sees the largest of precipitation events.

The forecast as of this morning......starting Monday afternoon precip will start to bank up against the Western Slope of the Sierra and by evening will start to spill over into the Tahoe Basin. Snow levels will initially be as low as 7500', but will rise above 8000' and possibly much higher as the deep tropical moisture streams onshore. Current precipitation projections from the HPC show up to 5.6" as of Wednesday morning, and 6-10" overall on the West side of the Crest by the end of the event. The Tahoe Basin could possibly receive upwards of 2-3" of rain by Wednesday night. Temps will stay mild through the event, hence the high snow levels. Winds will be heavy, gusting to 100mph on the ridges but surface winds will be limited due to the heavy precipitation.

The highest elevations of the Tahoe region, Mt. Rose, Freel and Round Top, as well as terrain generally above 9000' down the Sierra towards Mammoth will receive a few feet of heavy wet slop, the so called "Sierra Cement". The perfect base builder. More to come as we get closer.

PWG

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Current NWS Lake Tahoe Forecast
Lake Tahoe Backcountry Forecast
Lake Tahoe Recreational Forecast
Wind Chill Chart

Forecast Links:
National Weather Service Reno
National Weather Service Sacramento
NWS Reno Discussion
NWS Sacramento Discussion

Radar:
Intellicast Reno
Intellicast San Francisco
PacNW
PacSW

Satellite Imagery:
4km IR Loop
16km IR Loop
Central California 1km Visible
GOES-W 12hr WV
GOES NA 24hr WV
Precipitable Water Loop
Past Week's Estimated Precipitation Totals

Forecasting Tools:
Day 1 QPF
Day 2 QPF
Day 3 QPF
Day 4-5 QPF
5 Day Total QPF
California Nevada River Forecast Center
300mb Jetstream Loop
NCEP & HPC Loops Page
Pennsylvania State University Electronic Map Wall
CPC 6-10 Day Outlook
CPC 8-14 Day Outlook

Remote Data:
NWS Reno Local Mountain Remote Data
NWS Surface Observations
Tahoe City
NASA/JPL-UCD Buoys
Truckee Airport
Central Sierra Snow Lab
Sugar Bowl
Squaw Valley GC
Ward Creek
Rubicon
Sonora Pass
Virginia Lakes
Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge
Mammoth Mountain Summit
Reno Airport

Snow Data:
Sierra Avalanche Center
Sierra Avalanche Center Snowpit Profiles and Field Observations
Snowpit Profile Key
Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
Avalanche.org
California Department of Water Resources
California Snotel Sites
Snotel Narrative
NOAA NOHRSC Interactive Snow Information
NWS Snowpack Analysis

Donner Summit Snowfall History

Brought to you by http://www.porterstahoe.com/

All eyes on next week....

2009-10-06T12:30:00.000-07:00

10/6/09 12:30pm
Mellow weather for the rest of this week and into the weekend. Slight chance of precip way down South as some energy comes in off the Pacific into the desert tomorrow. Maybe a passing cloud or two with a slow warming trend is in store for Tahoe. Morning lows @ or below freezing and afternoon highs topping out near 60F.

All eyes are on next week for the first real series of storms for the infantile winter season. I mean "series" of storms. A powerful Pacific jet will send storms into the PacNW after this weekend. The question for Tahoe is, will the jet sag South enough to give us the juice? If it does it we could get substantial snows in the hills. I'll keep you in the loop.

PWG

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Current NWS Lake Tahoe Forecast
Lake Tahoe Backcountry Forecast
Lake Tahoe Recreational Forecast
Wind Chill Chart

Forecast Links:
National Weather Service Reno
National Weather Service Sacramento
NWS Reno Discussion
NWS Sacramento Discussion

Radar:
Intellicast Reno
Intellicast San Francisco
PacNW
PacSW

Satellite Imagery:
4km IR Loop
16km IR Loop
Central California 1km Visible
GOES-W 12hr WV
GOES NA 24hr WV
Precipitable Water Loop
Past Week's Estimated Precipitation Totals

Forecasting Tools:
Day 1 QPF
Day 2 QPF
Day 3 QPF
Day 4-5 QPF
5 Day Total QPF
California Nevada River Forecast Center
300mb Jetstream Loop
NCEP & HPC Loops Page
Pennsylvania State University Electronic Map Wall
CPC 6-10 Day Outlook
CPC 8-14 Day Outlook

Remote Data:
NWS Reno Local Mountain Remote Data
NWS Surface Observations
Tahoe City
NASA/JPL-UCD Buoys
Truckee Airport
Central Sierra Snow Lab
Sugar Bowl
Squaw Valley GC
Ward Creek
Rubicon
Sonora Pass
Virginia Lakes
Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge
Mammoth Mountain Summit
Reno Airport

Snow Data:
Sierra Avalanche Center
Sierra Avalanche Center Snowpit Profiles and Field Observations
Snowpit Profile Key
Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
Avalanche.org
California Department of Water Resources
California Snotel Sites
Snotel Narrative
NOAA NOHRSC Interactive Snow Information
NWS Snowpack Analysis

Donner Summit Snowfall History

Brought to you by http://www.porterstahoe.com/

Fall Swell on Big Blue

2009-10-04T14:00:00.000-07:00

10/4/09 2pm
As you all know a strong low pressure system dropped down from Canada into the PacNW and then into the Sierra yesterday. Temps stayed on the warm side until the cold front passed through last night. Ahead of the front, the winds were howling, and wind creates waves. Lucky for us we live near a big lake that provides appropriate fetch. So at about 3pm yesterday I made sure I was on the East Shore. Around that time the cold front was making its way over the Crest and into the Tahoe Basin. The winds along the Crest were gusting to 70mph, the winds on the surface of the lake were 35-40mph. Water temps were about 60F and the air temp was still in mid 50s. Put it all together at the Secret Spot on the East Shore and you get 3-4ft waves with occasional 5ft faces at a period of about 5sec. Complete washing machine, but clean faces on the bigger ones. There were actually sets of about 3-4 waves as the stronger gusts pushed all the way across the lake.

10/3/09 ~3pm, @ the Secret Spot, NV

Fall is a great time in Lake Tahoe. The first strong storms to come out of the Gulf of Alaska meet up with really warm air over the Great Basin creating thermal and pressure gradients that result in really strong winds. All you need is a big body of water, time off and a car to get you where you need to be at the right time. For me it took over ten years of living here to finally get the real deal, surfable swell on Big Blue. Finally.

Great. Now it's time for pow, which it is good seeing how today we are getting snow.

Enjoy.
The PortersWeatherGuy

Legit Fresh Snow, Depending on Where You Are

2009-10-04T10:09:00.001-07:00

10/4/09 10:09am
Depending on your location this morning will determine how much snow you got last night. Out here in East Truckee there isn't much to speak about. Squaw, Alpine, Sugar Bowl and the other North Lake Tahoe resorts received a few inches up top while the big winners are South Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Crest South of Lake Tahoe. Earlier this morning, a lake effect snow band developed off Lake Tahoe and left a few inches in South Lake, and 4-6" in the higher elevations continuing all the way to Mammoth. Web cams show snow covered roads in SLT, and the Mammoth cams show it still pounding. Pounding is a figurative term for early season snow showers. Regardless the weekly transition from full on summer to more of a late fall/early winter feel is complete. Last Sunday it was 85F in Truckee. Today's high is 40F. Pretty much since our large wind event last Monday/ Tuesday fall is here and winter is nipping at our nose.

For today, snow showers should redevelop over the region as the cold, moist, unstable pool of air hangs around through tonight. Snow showers, snow pellets and light rain is possible below 6k. The low pushes East tonight and leaves Tahoe under N-NE flow keeping high temps around 50F until Wednesday when heights will rise and ridging takes hold. NW flow will prevail the rest of the week keeping us dry. Right now, no confidence in any more precip in the next 7 days. Next chance for a storm might be around 10/14. Well see.....

PWG

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Current NWS Lake Tahoe Forecast
Lake Tahoe Backcountry Forecast
Lake Tahoe Recreational Forecast
Wind Chill Chart

Forecast Links:
National Weather Service Reno
National Weather Service Sacramento
NWS Reno Discussion
NWS Sacramento Discussion

Radar:
Intellicast Reno
Intellicast San Francisco
PacNW
PacSW

Satellite Imagery:
4km IR Loop
16km IR Loop
Central California 1km Visible
GOES-W 12hr WV
GOES NA 24hr WV
Precipitable Water Loop
Past Week's Estimated Precipitation Totals

Forecasting Tools:
Day 1 QPF
Day 2 QPF
Day 3 QPF
Day 4-5 QPF
5 Day Total QPF
California Nevada River Forecast Center
300mb Jetstream Loop
NCEP & HPC Loops Page
Pennsylvania State University Electronic Map Wall
CPC 6-10 Day Outlook
CPC 8-14 Day Outlook

Remote Data:
NWS Reno Local Mountain Remote Data
NWS Surface Observations
Tahoe City
NASA/JPL-UCD Buoys
Truckee Airport
Central Sierra Snow Lab
Sugar Bowl
Squaw Valley GC
Ward Creek
Rubicon
Sonora Pass
Virginia Lakes
Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge
Mammoth Mountain Summit
Reno Airport

Snow Data:
Sierra Avalanche Center
Sierra Avalanche Center Snowpit Profiles and Field Observations
Snowpit Profile Key
Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
Avalanche.org
California Department of Water Resources
California Snotel Sites
Snotel Narrative
NOAA NOHRSC Interactive Snow Information
NWS Snowpack Analysis

Donner Summit Snowfall History

Brought to you by http://www.porterstahoe.com/

Another round of wind, dropping temps and snow

2009-10-02T12:53:00.000-07:00

10/2/09 12:53pm
Great day out there today. Sunny and warm with light breezes. Well, say goodbye to that. Active weather pattern on tap for this first weekend of Rocktober.

Saturday will see a massive increase in winds as an unseasonably strong low pressure system and associated vigorous cold front drops into the region from the North. The low pressure is straight from the party upstairs (some call it Canada) and will drop through WA and OR into NE NV by Sunday. Unfortunately the path of the low is over land, so moisture will be limited. With the help of a 125kt+ jet stream slamming into the Sierra, we will get some snow from this cold front even with the limited moisture. By Saturday night temps will begin to fall as winds will be 20-30mph G50mph at the lake and in Truckee while the TSC will see SW winds gusting to near 100mph. Fire weather concerns understood. The forcing created by the low pressure and the drop in temps will squeeze out all available moisture, leaving us with a few inches of snow at best. More so on the Eastern side of the Sierra. Snow levels look to drop to ~4k on Sunday morn. Reno could even pick up some action other than just blowing dust.

Temperatures on Sunday will top out in the low 40s around North Lake Tahoe. Monday will only be a little better with highs getting to 50F. The models show a cut off low forming and dropping down the CA coast as the parent low lifts off to the East, which could keep a showery pattern going until Wednesday.

PWG

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Current NWS Lake Tahoe Forecast
Lake Tahoe Backcountry Forecast
Lake Tahoe Recreational Forecast
Wind Chill Chart

Forecast Links:
National Weather Service Reno
National Weather Service Sacramento
NWS Reno Discussion
NWS Sacramento Discussion

Radar:
Intellicast Reno
Intellicast San Francisco
PacNW
PacSW

Satellite Imagery:
4km IR Loop
16km IR Loop
Central California 1km Visible
GOES-W 12hr WV
GOES NA 24hr WV
Precipitable Water Loop
Past Week's Estimated Precipitation Totals

Forecasting Tools:
Day 1 QPF
Day 2 QPF
Day 3 QPF
Day 4-5 QPF
5 Day Total QPF
California Nevada River Forecast Center
300mb Jetstream Loop
NCEP & HPC Loops Page
Pennsylvania State University Electronic Map Wall
CPC 6-10 Day Outlook
CPC 8-14 Day Outlook

Remote Data:
NWS Reno Local Mountain Remote Data
NWS Surface Observations
Tahoe City
NASA/JPL-UCD Buoys
Truckee Airport
Central Sierra Snow Lab
Sugar Bowl
Squaw Valley GC
Ward Creek
Rubicon
Sonora Pass
Virginia Lakes
Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge
Mammoth Mountain Summit
Reno Airport

Snow Data:
Sierra Avalanche Center
Sierra Avalanche Center Snowpit Profiles and Field Observations
Snowpit Profile Key
Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
Avalanche.org
California Department of Water Resources
California Snotel Sites
Snotel Narrative
NOAA NOHRSC Interactive Snow Information
NWS Snowpack Analysis

Donner Summit Snowfall History

Brought to you by http://www.porterstahoe.com/

Did you see it?

2009-09-30T18:00:00.000-07:00

9/30/09 6pm
See what you ask? Either your breath in the air last night/ this morning and the snow on Mt. Rose after last night's quick dusting. Web cam at the top of Relay Peak showed a nice few inches of snow on the ground as day broke. Low temps were the coldest we have seen since June and tonight will be even colder. We did miss out on a bunch of snow though as the Cottonwoods of Utah are seeing a great beginning to winter.

Currently low pressure is exiting to the East and high pressure is building overhead. Cold, dry air is in place at the surface which will provide for excellent radiational cooling tonight. A down right chilly forecast of 19F for Truckee the next two mornings. Around the lake temps will stay in the mid 20s due to the warming effects of the big blue advil.

The current building ridge will give us clear skies and some gusty E-NE winds over the crest for the next day. Daytime high temps will moderate into the 60s for Thurs/Friday. Starting Saturday, winds will switch back to the W-SW as another cold low drops in from the North. Latest model forecasts show the low dropping over Oregon into Northern NV, so the over water trajectory won't be the best. Right now we will get cold air, wind (ridge gusts could top 75mph), and a chance for snow. Snow levels will be below lake level on Sunday into Monday. Don't expect much accumulation unless the low drops further West and pics up moisture off the Eastern Pacific. The current forecast track for the low has the potential to bring possibly significant snows to the Tetons late in the weekend/ early next week. Beyond Monday there is a lack of consensus when trying to determine the strength of the energy left behind as the low pulls off to the East. We maintain the chances for snow showers at this point. Regardless, Sunday and Monday will see high temps in the upper 40s in Truckee, 30s @ 8k.

Longer range models show a return to high pressure late next week. So a gradual warming trend after next Wednesday could provide for great Indian Summer weather, for about 7-10 days. At +14 days, we could see another round of troughing over the West Coast.....Stay tuned.

PWG

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Current NWS Lake Tahoe Forecast
Lake Tahoe Backcountry Forecast
Lake Tahoe Recreational Forecast
Wind Chill Chart

Forecast Links:
National Weather Service Reno
National Weather Service Sacramento
NWS Reno Discussion
NWS Sacramento Discussion

Radar:
Intellicast Reno
Intellicast San Francisco
PacNW
PacSW

Satellite Imagery:
4km IR Loop
16km IR Loop
Central California 1km Visible
GOES-W 12hr WV
GOES NA 24hr WV
Precipitable Water Loop
Past Week's Estimated Precipitation Totals

Forecasting Tools:
Day 1 QPF
Day 2 QPF
Day 3 QPF
Day 4-5 QPF
5 Day Total QPF
California Nevada River Forecast Center
300mb Jetstream Loop
NCEP & HPC Loops Page
Pennsylvania State University Electronic Map Wall
CPC 6-10 Day Outlook
CPC 8-14 Day Outlook

Remote Data:
NWS Reno Local Mountain Remote Data
NWS Surface Observations
Tahoe City
NASA/JPL-UCD Buoys
Truckee Airport
Central Sierra Snow Lab
Sugar Bowl
Squaw Valley GC
Ward Creek
Rubicon
Sonora Pass
Virginia Lakes
Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge
Mammoth Mountain Summit
Reno Airport

Snow Data:
Sierra Avalanche Center
Sierra Avalanche Center Snowpit Profiles and Field Observations
Snowpit Profile Key
Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
Avalanche.org
California Department of Water Resources
California Snotel Sites
Snotel Narrative
NOAA NOHRSC Interactive Snow Information
NWS Snowpack Analysis

Donner Summit Snowfall History

Brought to you by http://www.porterstahoe.com/

Here comes the roller coaster

2009-09-28T12:04:00.000-07:00

9/28/09 nooner
Winds are starting to pick up around North Lake Tahoe and temps are a bit cooler than the last week. Forecast is on track for the strong cold front to blow through the region tonight and tomorrow. See my previous post for a longer discussion.

As for today's update, fire weather concerns seem to be topping the list as this cold front comes through. The bulk of precipitation will stay North of the Oregon boarder. So Tahoe will see the bottom fall out of the temperatures and a whole lot of wind. A stray snow shower is possible through Tuesday night.

Winds will calm down by Wednesday and the sun will return, but temps will struggle to hit 50F. For Thursday and Friday temperatures will rebound nicely into the 60s, but morning lows will still be chilly in the 20s.

So looking forward, another cold front will affect the region Saturday/Sunday and could possibly set up low pressure over the Sierra for a good part of next week. This would allow for vort maxes to rotate around the low and bring showers to the Sierra. The GFS seems to show the high pressure retrograding West to about 150W 40N, which is prime location for weather in the Sierra. One question that still remains unanswered is the path of the cold front/low down the coast. Today's model runs show the path more over land than the Pacific. We will have to wait and see how this all pans out. The PacNW could see a few good shots of energy come onshore next week. Time will tell. Enjoy the wind, go fly a kite.

PWG

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Current NWS Lake Tahoe Forecast
Lake Tahoe Backcountry Forecast
Lake Tahoe Recreational Forecast
Wind Chill Chart

Forecast Links:
National Weather Service Reno
National Weather Service Sacramento
NWS Reno Discussion
NWS Sacramento Discussion

Radar:
Intellicast Reno
Intellicast San Francisco
PacNW
PacSW

Satellite Imagery:
4km IR Loop
16km IR Loop
Central California 1km Visible
GOES-W 12hr WV
GOES NA 24hr WV
Precipitable Water Loop
Past Week's Estimated Precipitation Totals

Forecasting Tools:
Day 1 QPF
Day 2 QPF
Day 3 QPF
Day 4-5 QPF
5 Day Total QPF
California Nevada River Forecast Center
300mb Jetstream Loop
NCEP & HPC Loops Page
Pennsylvania State University Electronic Map Wall
CPC 6-10 Day Outlook
CPC 8-14 Day Outlook

Remote Data:
NWS Reno Local Mountain Remote Data
NWS Surface Observations
Tahoe City
NASA/JPL-UCD Buoys
Truckee Airport
Central Sierra Snow Lab
Sugar Bowl
Squaw Valley GC
Ward Creek
Rubicon
Sonora Pass
Virginia Lakes
Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge
Mammoth Mountain Summit
Reno Airport

Snow Data:
Sierra Avalanche Center
Sierra Avalanche Center Snowpit Profiles and Field Observations
Snowpit Profile Key
Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
Avalanche.org
California Department of Water Resources
California Snotel Sites
Snotel Narrative
NOAA NOHRSC Interactive Snow Information
NWS Snowpack Analysis

Donner Summit Snowfall History

Brought to you by http://www.porterstahoe.com/

Major Pattern Change, Possible Snow?

2009-09-27T10:30:00.000-07:00

9/27/09 10:30am
It is like being back with an old friend. I have been waiting all summer to write about cold fronts, over water trajectory, wind chills and snow. Well, this week I get to do all of those things again. Smile on my face from ear to ear.

Today will be last day of the warm, cloudless, absolutely perfect weather in Tahoe. Starting Monday a strong cold front will make its way out of the GofAK towards the West Coast. Tuesday is the day of front passage when winds will be strong, and temps will come crashing down from what we have been used to. By Wednesday we will be under a cool pool of air, and a North surface flow that will keep daytime highs about 30F colder than today. There is a slight chance of snow here in Tahoe on Tuesday/ Tuesday night as the cold front passes through, but moisture is very limited so a stray flake might be a better way to put it. This strong cold front will be more generous to places like the Wasatch and the Tetons where a good dumping could occur. The mountains of Northern Utah could see their first storm leave them with a foot or two of snow at the highest elevations.

In more detail, Monday will see an increase in clouds and wind. Temps will drop about 10F from today's highs, so mid 70s for Truckee. Winds will increase substantially along the ridges when gusts will top out in the 65-75mph range. In town expect SW winds 15mph gusting to 30mph. It goes without saying that the fire danger will increase proportionally with the winds. Control your flame!

Tuesday clouds abound and winds will continue as the front passes through the region. Chance of snow Tuesday->Tuesday night although it will be light. Snow levels will be about 6grand in Tahoe. Not expecting much than a dusting at the higher elevations. Wednesday morning will start out cold with temps in the low 30s and even upper 20s in the colder valleys. Highs Wednesday will be about 50F at best. Thursday morning lows are forecast to be around 20F in Truckee, so a good hard freeze everywhere by Thursday morning. Temps start to moderate back into the 60s by Thursday and Friday. Summer will be officially over today, fall starts tomorrow, and winter could arrive later next week.

Looking towards next weekend, we could possibly be lining up for our first snow of the season. Another cold front from the GofAK could arrive Saturday, this one with better over water trajectory. Looking at the GFS runs from last night and this morning, low pressure could linger from 10/4-6. I'll keep my eye on that one.

PWG

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Current NWS Lake Tahoe Forecast
Lake Tahoe Backcountry Forecast
Lake Tahoe Recreational Forecast
Wind Chill Chart

Forecast Links:
National Weather Service Reno
National Weather Service Sacramento
NWS Reno Discussion
NWS Sacramento Discussion

Radar:
Intellicast Reno
Intellicast San Francisco
PacNW
PacSW

Satellite Imagery:
4km IR Loop
16km IR Loop
Central California 1km Visible
GOES-W 12hr WV
GOES NA 24hr WV
Precipitable Water Loop
Past Week's Estimated Precipitation Totals

Forecasting Tools:
Day 1 QPF
Day 2 QPF
Day 3 QPF
Day 4-5 QPF
5 Day Total QPF
California Nevada River Forecast Center
300mb Jetstream Loop
NCEP & HPC Loops Page
Pennsylvania State University Electronic Map Wall
CPC 6-10 Day Outlook
CPC 8-14 Day Outlook

Remote Data:
NWS Reno Local Mountain Remote Data
NWS Surface Observations
Tahoe City
NASA/JPL-UCD Buoys
Truckee Airport
Central Sierra Snow Lab
Sugar Bowl
Squaw Valley GC
Ward Creek
Rubicon
Sonora Pass
Virginia Lakes
Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge
Mammoth Mountain Summit
Reno Airport

Snow Data:
Sierra Avalanche Center
Sierra Avalanche Center Snowpit Profiles and Field Observations
Snowpit Profile Key
Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
Avalanche.org
California Department of Water Resources
California Snotel Sites
Snotel Narrative
NOAA NOHRSC Interactive Snow Information
NWS Snowpack Analysis

Donner Summit Snowfall History

Brought to you by http://www.porterstahoe.com/