Winter weather advisory issued for Nevada valleys

A series of weather-related traffic accidents snarled Highway 88 through Alpine County on Saturday afternoon as a storm rolled in over the Sierra.

At least two collisions were reported on 88, one at Sorenson's and another at Snowshoe Springs Road.

Snow tires or chains are required over 88. Chains or four-wheel drive are being required over Echo Summit on Highway 88.

According to a winter weather advisory was issued by the National Weather Service at 2:23 p.m. today, a cold area of low pressure will bring colder temperatures to Western Nevada, producing moderate to heavy snow showers.

The advisory takes effect 10 tonight and will last until 10 a.m. Sunday.

The Weather Service predicts that snowfall rates of more than an inch an hour are possible in some places.

Because it's possible the snow bands will be narrow, only a few places will be affected.

Carson Valley could receive a few inches of snow from a shower.

Where snow is heavy, travel will be difficult, with low visibility. Travelers on Highway 50 and Highway 395 should be prepared for winter driving conditions today and Sunday.

It started raining in Gardnerville at about 2 p.m.