Fall Weather Update: Cooler Temperatures and Storm Systems Ahead for Northern Nevada

Currently, isolated showers are occurring in the Nevada Basin, linked to an upper-level closed low lingering over northern Nevada.Photo byHafidh SatyantoonUnsplash

The National Weather Service in Reno forecasts a shift in weather patterns for Northern Nevada over the coming days. After experiencing cooler temperatures today, warmer afternoons are expected on Monday and Tuesday, followed by the arrival of storm systems midweek.

Currently, isolated showers are occurring in the Nevada Basin, linked to an upper-level closed low lingering over northern Nevada. While these showers may not be significant, there’s potential for light rain or virga (moisture that evaporates before reaching the ground) due to the system's dynamics interacting with local mountains. However, fair weather with dry conditions, mild temperatures, and light winds will prevail overall today.

Beginning Monday and extending through Tuesday, temperatures are anticipated to rise as the upper low moves out, leading to warmer and more stable weather conditions. However, this respite will be short-lived as two storm systems approach the region from Wednesday through Friday.

The first storm system, a shortwave trough, is set to move in on Wednesday, bringing cooler temperatures and chances of rain across the area, particularly in northeastern California and the Sierra. Although some snow may fall in the higher elevations, total liquid accumulations are expected to remain low, likely below 0.10 inches. Afternoon valley temperatures are forecasted to be in the low 70s, with mountain temperatures ranging from the low to mid-60s.

Following this system, another storm is expected on Thursday and Friday. Currently classified as an inside slider, this system's evolution is uncertain, with most models indicating primarily rain, though some suggest the possibility of snow accumulations down to the valley floors. According to the GEFS, there is only a 5% chance of seeing trace amounts of snow in Reno. Temperatures are projected to drop significantly, with Friday likely being the coldest day of the week, featuring maximum temperatures in the mid-50s to around 60 degrees.