Northern Nevada Braces for Winter Storms, Road Closures and Delays

Northern Nevada is grappling with ongoing winter weather challenges, as a second wave of storms brings snow, ice, and travel disruptions. Road conditions are treacherous, leading to closures, delays, and advisories across the region.

Current Conditions and Road Impacts

As of February 19, 2026, road conditions in the Sierra Nevada are slick and icy, with chain and snow tire requirements in effect for many mountain passes. Authorities strongly discourage non-essential travel. Motorists are urged to exercise extreme caution and check current conditions before traveling using resources like NVRoads.com and the 5-1-1 travel hotline.

Crews from Carson City Public Works and the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) are actively working to clear roadways along I-580, US-50 East and West, and US-395. Isolated showers with up to 3 inches of additional accumulation are possible even as snow removal efforts continue.

Winter Storm Warnings and Forecasts

A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect, with a second, faster-moving storm system expected to bring additional snowfall to the Sierra, western Nevada, and northeast California. The Sierra could receive 6-12 inches of snow, with up to 18 inches at higher elevations.

The Eastern Mojave Desert, including areas near Carson City, is under a Winter Storm Warning until 7 PM PST on February 19, 2026, with expected snow accumulations up to two inches and wind gusts as high as 45 mph. These conditions will likely make roads slick and hazardous.

School and State Office Closures/Delays

State offices in Carson City and across northern Nevada are operating on a two-hour delay. Schools and colleges have either closed or are implementing delayed start times. Details on state office delays and school closures are available through respective official channels.

Nevada Snowpack Levels

Snowpack levels across Nevada are currently 70% of normal. The deepest snowpack in the state was last observed at Mt Rose Ski Area, with a depth of 99 inches, which is approximately 114% of its 87-inch average for this time of year. Snowfall has been replenishing levels at sites like Berry Creek and Wheeler Peak, while other areas have seen minimal change.

Skiers are urged to exercise caution following deadly avalanches in nearby California, although no imminent avalanche warnings have been issued in Nevada.

Resources

• NVRoads.com
• 5-1-1 travel hotline
• SNOFLO Nevada Snow Report