If you read our California ‘Megaflood’ Forecasts Heavy Snow To Truckee-Tahoe Region article or have lived in Truckee over the winter season, then you know the realities of living in the High Sierra, especially with our changing climate. Three of the last four largest single-month snowfalls have occurred within the last five years. With these heavy storms come highway closures, power outages, food and fuel shortages, and the loss of both internet and cell phone service.
Winter Storm Preparation
While forecasts may not pinpoint the exact time a heavy storm will hit, we should all be prepared ‘hunker down’ at home and safely navigate periods of challenging weather. Here are some tips to help keep you and your family warm and safe this coming winter.
- Sign Up For CodeRED Alerts – This service sends important alerts via emails or text message updates on topics like weather conditions and potential hazards in your area.
- Know The Weather – With our access to accurate weather forecasts, there’s no excuse to put you or your family in harm’s way.
- Be Ready For Power Outages – Have a generator or portable power solution to deal with prolonged power outages.
- Have A Plan To Keep Warm – If your home lacks a fireplace or a wood-burning stove make sure you have alternative sources for heat and warmth, like extra blankets, sleeping bags, or a portable heater that can be powered by a temporary power source.
- Be Home Access Self-Sufficient – Be prepared to clear your own driveway, either with a shovel or a small snowblower. While you may have a snow removal service, you need to be prepared to get yourself out of your driveway at a moment’s notice.
- Prepare To Leave – If you have to evacuate in a pinch, make sure that you prepare your vehicle ahead of time with a full tank of fuel, an emergency kit, and warm clothes in your car so you can leave right away.
- Have A Capable, Snow-Worthy Vehicle – Make sure that you have a four-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicle with enough ground clearance and all-weather tires.
Information on Travel & Road Conditions
Below are some helpful resources for travel in the Sierra Nevada and in preparation of future winter storms.
- Visit Truckee Tahoe Travel Alert Page
- Caltrans Road Conditions and Traffic Webcams
- Live Webcams including Northwoods/Northwoods: Tahoeweathercam.com
- Town of Truckee: Winter Information and Driving Tips
- Town of Truckee: Snow Removal Vehicle Locations via 511
- CHP Truckee Facebook Page
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