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First snow for Reno: Parts of Nevada, California require chains, slow down on morning commute

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First snow for Reno: Parts of Nevada, California require chains, slow down on morning commute

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Road conditions are subject to change. This story will be updated throughout the day.

Renoites will wake up to the first dusting of snow of fall 2024 this morning. As morning commuters make their way to work, the National Weather Service is recommending drivers take it slow. Meanwhile chains and four-wheel-drive vehicles are required to cross Donner Pass on I-80 as well as other roads.

Here’s everything you need to know about traveling in this morning’s snowfall:

Is Donner Pass open? Are there chain requirements on I-80 at the Nevada-California border? 

Donner Pass remains open this morning. However, there are some requirements to cross the pass. 

Going westbound from Reno to California, chains are required on all vehicles except for those with four-wheel-drive and snow tires on all four wheels from the Donner Lake Interchange to Nyack in Placer County. All semi-trucks are being screened 5 miles west of Reno at Mogul. Semi truck drivers must have maximum chains in their possession in order to proceed  and permit loads are prohibited.

For eastbound traffic, chains are required on all vehicles except four-wheel-drive vehicles with snow tires on all four wheels from Nyack to Truckee. Eastbound semi trucks have the same requirements as westbound starting at Applegate in Placer County.

You can keep track of chain requirements here.

Can I travel up Mt. Rose today? Are there chain requirements to travel to Lake Tahoe up Mt. Rose Highway?

People hoping to travel up Mt. Rose Highway will face the same requirements as those traveling through I-80. Chains are required for vehicles without four-wheel-drive and snow tires north of the Montreux neighborhood going westbound and at the intersection of Mt. Rose Highway and Tahoe Boulevard going eastbound, according to the Nevada Department of Transportation.

What other roads are requiring chains this morning? Can I travel to Virginia City? Can I get to Tahoe through Kingsbury Grade or Highway 50?

The road through the Virginia City Highlands requires either snow tires or chains to travel up the hill to Virginia City. Getting to Tahoe through Kingsbury Grade or Highway 50 all require the same chain or snow tires on four-wheel-drive requirements as I-80 and Mt. Rose Highway.

How should I drive during my morning commute?

Driving slowly, increasing your distance between cars and avoiding distractions and cruise control can all help avoid snow-related collisions on the road. The National Weather Service also reminds people to check your tire conditions, that your lights work properly and to prepare a winter emergency kit this time of year.

Are schools closed or delayed today because of snow?

No. UNR and WCSD schools will open at normal times.

Where can I find snow chains in Reno?

Snow conditions could limit who can travel over Donner Pass to those with four-wheel-drive and snow tires. You can find snow chains in Reno at Walmart, Les Schwab and AutoZone.

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