Winter refuses to yield to spring in the Sierra

A winter storm warning was in effect today through tonight for the Lake Tahoe region, where the forecast called for snow accompanied by blustery winds gusting to 60 mph over the ridgetops.

The National Weather Service predicted accumulations of 4 to 8 inches by tonight at lake level, with up to a foot above 7,000 feet.

Chains or snow tires were required on all mountain passes early today, including Interstate 80 over Donner Summit, U.S. 50 over Echo, the Mount Rose Highway and Kingsbury Grade.

Snow was expected in the Reno-Carson City area by later in the afternoon. Anywhere from 1 to 3 inches was anticipated.

A wind advisory was posted for the valleys along the eastern Sierra from Susanville, Calif., to Gardnerville along the U.S. 395 corridor.

A high wind warning was issued for Washoe Valley between Reno and Carson City.

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