textproduct: Reno

KEY MESSAGES

* Dry conditions prevail through Monday as a warming trend pushes temperatures into the low to mid 70s for western Nevada and 60s for Sierra valleys.

* Breezy southwesterly winds are possible Monday with a 30 to 50% chance of gusts greater than 35 mph.

* A weather system brings gusty winds, rain, and mountain snow to the region, with travel impacts possible Tuesday through next Thursday.

DISCUSSION

Weekend Warming Trend

* After a cold start this morning, we are beginning a transition toward much milder and drier spring weather. Temperatures today will climb roughly 5 degrees higher than yesterday, though they will stay slightly below average under light easterly breezes. While Saturday morning remains chilly with lows hovering near the freezing mark, the afternoon will see a significant jump in mercury. From Saturday through Monday, high temperatures in western Nevada valleys will climb into the 70s. Warmer spots are likely to peak near the 80-degree mark on Sunday and Monday. Meanwhile, Sierra valleys will feel highs in the 60s.

Mid-Week Storm Potential and Impacts

* The quiet weather pattern is expected to break by Tuesday as a weather system moves into the region. Increased southwesterly breezes will develop Monday afternoon, signaling the initial transition away from the warm weekend. This storm has trended slower over the past several days and is now primarily targeting the Tuesday through Thursday window for precipitation. Travelers should prepare for winter conditions along the higher passes of the Sierra Tuesday through Thursday, where there is a 35-60% probability of storm total accumulations of 10 inches or more. Actual accumulations may be tempered, however, by the longer daylight hours, higher April sun angle, and the timing of the heaviest snowfall. Additionally, we are monitoring a 10-15% chance of thunderstorms across the area, which could produce small hail or pellet showers. Valley winds will also be a factor, with gusts greater than 40 mph anticipated at times. Confidence regarding specific timing and snow totals remains low to medium at this time.

-Johnston

AVIATION

* VFR conditions will prevail into the weekend, with mid-to-high level clouds streaming across the region. Light diurnal winds are expected today and tonight, before light southwesterly breezes make their return Saturday and Sunday afternoon. Winds pick up Monday (gusts 25-30 kts) ahead of the next weather system, which is slated to bring gusty winds, chances for rain, thunder, and Sierra snow Tuesday through Thursday.

-Johnston

REV Watches/Warnings/Advisories

NV...None. CA...None.