Truckee Winter Storms: How To Prepare and Stay Safe

Truckee’s winter storms can be unpredictable and create potential hazards for homeowners. Preparing for winter weather is essential for safeguarding both your family and your property. According to the UC Berkeley Central Sierra Snow Lab (CSSL), which has been conducting tracking our winters for over 75 years, Truckee winters do not “turn on the faucet” until the second half of the season. This means that while we are currently above average for snow accumulation, the biggest storms are still on the horizon. You can reduce any risks posed by future winter storms and ensure your home stays safe and comfortable during these coming months by taking into consideration the following tips.

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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