A winter storm that started in the Gulf of Alaska is headed for the region and is expected to dump at least a few inches of snow on the valley floor by the weekend, according to the National Weather Service.
Meteorologist Katie LaBelle said about two to four feet of snow is expected to fall in the Sierra above 7,000 feet and about one to two feet of snow below 7,000 feet.
"For the Carson City-Reno area we're expecting several inches, but it could be a higher amount," LaBelle said.
Wind gusts of up to 50 mph are expected to last all day today, with crosswinds affecting traffic traveling along U.S. 395 before the storm arrives on Friday.
There's a slight chance of rain on Friday with the greatest chance for snow Friday night and Saturday, and continuing into next week.
High temperatures will fall to the mid-30s by Sunday with lows in the teens.