Snow to return to Tahoe as storm moves in; Resort updates

by | Dec 22, 2025 | Uncategorized

TAHOE BASIN, Calif. — Rain across the Tahoe region is expected to transition to snow later this week as a colder storm system moves into the northern Sierra, according to forecasters. Here’s what to expect in the days ahead, along with updates from area ski resorts.

Weather Run-Down

While the National Weather Service flood watch for the Greater Lake Tahoe Area remains in effect until 4 p.m. Monday, a brief break between storms is expected Tuesday, with daytime highs in the 40s and the possibility of some sunshine. Dry conditions are forecast through Tuesday evening before rain and snow return late Tuesday night or early Wednesday morning.

OpenSnow forecaster Bryan Allegretto said the first system arriving early Wednesday is expected to be weaker and warmer, followed by a colder and stronger storm moving inland Thursday into Friday. Snow levels could start near 7,200 to 7,700 feet early Wednesday, fall to 6,500 to 7,000 feet by sunrise and dip closer to 6,000 feet by midday, allowing rain to mix with snow at lower elevations.

According to the National Weather Service, snow levels are expected to fall below all Sierra passes and could drop as low as about 4,500 feet by Thursday afternoon and 5,500 feet by Friday, potentially bringing snow to valley floors in western Nevada. A Winter Storm Watch remains in effect for the Sierra from late Tuesday evening through Friday morning.

“The real show should be the Christmas miracle storm on Christmas Day, as Santa should deliver heavy snowfall down to the base as snow levels drop below 6,000 feet,” Allegretto said on OpenSnow.

Current Resort Conditions

The weekend atmospheric river conditions have affected ski resort operations across the Tahoe region.

Palisades Tahoe said operations Monday are limited to the First Venture Lift, the Ahsoka Magic Carpet and PT Kids, with beginner lessons still available through the Mountain Sports School.

Boreal Mountain paused lift operations from Dec. 19 through Dec. 22 due to storm impacts.

Diamond Peak Ski Resort, which opened its 60th season Friday with beginner terrain, closed Monday because of weather but said it plans to reopen Tuesday if conditions permit.

Some resorts reported improving conditions as colder air moved in. Kirkwood Mountain Resort said about 7 inches of new snow fell overnight, with temperatures hovering just below freezing. Sugar Bowl officials said while the storm began warm with rain, forecasts raise hopes for a white Christmas.