Flood Watches and Warnings have already been posted over the region as we head into the weekend. At this point, the areas most vulnerable to flooding are along the Truckee and Carson Rivers, although at this point flooding will likely be relatively minor in most areas. Specifically, areas of greatest concern along the Truckee River include the town of Truckee itself, which could experience flooding approaching major stage. Elsewhere, minor flooding could occur downtown Reno, with moderate flooding possible in the Vista area.

On the Carson River, minor to moderate flooding is possible on both the west and east forks in the foothills, whereas the main stem Carson River should mostly stay within its banks.

The rain is expected to begin in earnest late Thursday night, with the heaviest rainfall expected Friday night into Saturday. Snow levels will stay above most of the mountain passes until late in the storm cycle (Saturday afternoon) when they could lower  to below 7,000’, but by that time the heaviest precipitation should move on to the south. Sunday should be mostly sunny, with the next storm system due to arrive next Tuesday and Wednesday.