Snow causing dangerous roadways, car slides into deputy

A Carson City deputy working a traffic accident on Lakeview Hill during heavy snowfall tonight was hit by a car when it lost control on the slick roads.

Carson City Sheriff Ken Furlong said Deputy Dan Ochsenschlager was taken by ambulance from the scene with minor injuries following the 9:10 p.m. accident.

Furlong said the car slid into the deputy at about 20 mph.

"He'll be fine," said Furlong. "There are multiple (accidents) out there."

At least three are reported on the freeway off ramp at Highway 395.

The National Weather Service is reporting the storm, producing blizzard like conditions, will continue through tonight.

Very heavy snow is expected to continue, along with gusty winds producing visibility near zero with widespread blowing and drifting snow. Periodic highway closures are likely to continue. Otherwise expect significant delays and dangerous driving conditions. Travel is not recommended over the sierra passes until conditions improve after 5 a.m. Friday.

According to SafeTravel USA, both Interstate 80 and Highway 88 are closed through the Sierra. Highway 50 is closed over Echo Summit. Mount Rose also is closed.

Chains or snow tires are being required on Highway 395 south of Minden and over Kingsbury Grade where some avalanches have been reported as blocking the roadway.

Sustained winds of 25 mph or faster were recorded on Thursday morning with a gust of 61 mph.

The heaviest snow is expected through this evening in Carson Valley, with accumulations of up to 8 inches in the foothills.