Snow In Tahoe This Weekend? There's A Chance
KPIX 5 Morning Weather Anchor Roberta Gonzales answers the questions you never get to ask on-air.
Q: Hey Roberta, how are things looking for Tahoe? I'm heading there this weekend. Any snow in sight? - Dave Kemp, Napa
A: Well, there is a CHANCE of snow showers this Saturday and Sunday.
There is an "inside slider" that will bring partly cloudy skies beginning Friday to the Greater Lake Tahoe area, with a CHANCE of snow showers over the weekend. Otherwise, long range computer models suggest a shot of snow on February 27 and 28. In the meantime, while California is entering its fourth drought year, some big resorts with modern snow-making equipment are working overtime making snow in the cold overnight hours.
California has 27 resorts and two in neighboring Nevada. According to the California Ski Industry Association, Tahoe is the nation's second-most-popular destination for skiers and snowboarders after Colorado. But due to the lack of snow and unseasonably warm temperatures, some Resorts are closing their doors early.
As of this writing, China Peak Mountain Resort east of Fresno was among the latest ski areas forced to suspend business, following others in Northern California such as Donner Ski Ranch, Dodge Ridge and Yosemite's Badger Pass. Mt. Baldy Ski Lifts near Los Angeles also closed. But many of these resorts are offering ski/clothing sales at their resorts as well as Resort activities at discounted prices.
Last week's storm brought over 15 inches of snow on Homewood's upper mountain. While the terrain is limited, the upper mountain boasts terrific skiing. Squaw Valley, Kirkwood, Heavenly and Northstar all offer a great base at the higher elevations as well.
Although the Ski season started with a bang and allowed Ski Resorts to begin spinning chair lifts before Christmas, January was dreadful. The month ended with being labeled the driest and second warmest in recorded history.
The lake is blue and the hikes are bountiful. I hope you have a wonderful trip to Lake Tahoe!
Do you have a question, comment or observation? Please email me at: Gonzales@kpix.cbs.com
