Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Winter Storm Watch: Up to 8 Feet of Snow Expected

2/15/2026

29 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The National Weather Service issued a winter storm watch for Lake Tahoe and the Sierra from Sunday evening through Wednesday evening.
Heavy snowfall is expected, with 18 to 30 inches at lake level and up to 8 feet at higher elevations near Donner Pass.
Winds may gust to 55 mph, creating hazards.
In Reno, rain is likely before transitioning to snow, and the storm is anticipated to be the strongest since Christmas.

History

Historical Context

In 1846, the Donner Party, a group of American pioneers, became snowbound in the Sierra Nevada after taking a risky shortcut. Facing extreme winter conditions, they resorted to cannibalism to survive, with only 48 of the original 87 members making it through the ordeal. Today's winter storm watch for the Sierra, predicting up to 30 inches of snow, highlights the ongoing challenges of this treacherous region.

1 of 2

Story summary

The National Weather Service issued a winter storm watch for Lake Tahoe and the Sierra from Sunday evening through Wednesday evening.
Heavy snowfall is expected, with 18 to 30 inches at lake level and up to 8 feet at higher elevations near Donner Pass.
Winds may gust to 55 mph, creating hazards.
In Reno, rain is likely before transitioning to snow, and the storm is anticipated to be the strongest since Christmas.

1 / 2