High winds reduce travel through Washoe Valley

A high-wind warning was just getting started when blowing snow prompted the state to close portions of Interstate 580 through Washoe Valley on Monday.

With sustained 50 mph winds and a gust of 68 mph, multiple vehicles slid off the road prompting the Nevada Department of Transportation to escort vehicles through the main route between Reno and Carson City.

State transportation spokeswoman Meg Ragonese said travel times through Washoe Valley are about an hour, and asked that anyone who doesn’t need to travel that way, shouldn’t, and those who do should make sure they have plenty of gas.

“As temperatures drop this evening, wind-blown snow compacted by vehicle tires could lead to unpredictable and unanticipated icy spots,” she said. “For public safety, NDOT anticipates the potential of closing I-580 through Washoe Valley this early evening through (Tuesday) morning if necessitated by dangerous ice and wind conditions.”

Further south, the storm is still picking up speed, with the gauge at the Fish Springs fire house recording a 43-mph wind gust at 3:40 p.m.

Minden-Tahoe Airport’s automated weather system recorded a 36-mph gust in the middle of the Valley.

A high-wind warning remains in effect for Western Nevada 7 a.m. Tuesday with the possibility of 80 mph gusts overnight in wind-prone areas.

Blown down trees could cause power outages across the area.