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Officials: Plan accordingly for weekend snow in Southern Nevada mountains

Posted at 5:49 PM, Feb 21, 2020
and last updated 2020-02-21 21:57:17-05

NEVADA (KTNV) — The weather forecast is calling for rain in the Las Vegas valley to start the weekend, as well as mountain snow.

The National Weather Service in Las Vegas has posted a Winter Weather Advisory for the Spring Mountains and the Sheep Range on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

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The NWS predicts 4 to 8 inches of snow above 6,500 feet and 8 to 12 inches of snow above 8,000 feet along with rain at lower elevations.

Friday, the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest and the Mount Charleston Winter Alliance organizations reminded the public to enjoy the winter weather responsibly when visiting the Spring Mountains recreation areas.

The teams shared a few links below when it comes to being prepared if planning a weekend trip to the mountains:

Current temperatures, forecast, and weather radar available here for the Springs Mountains and Red Rock Canyon.

A Mount Charleston weather webcam is available here, showing current conditions on Nevada State Route 156. A Lee Canyon Resort webcam is also available here to check the slopes and lodge area.

When it comes to road information, visitors were advised to call 511 within Nevada or visit here for real-time travel times. Officials also said when chain requirements are in effect, the public must have chains if the vehicle does not have snow tires.

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When traveling to the mountains, drivers should start with a full tank of gas, because there are no gas stations on the mountain. Drivers should also carry tire chains, a cell phone, flashlight, ice scraper, jumper cables, first aid kit, compass, and plenty of drinking water, among other items, according to the agencies.

Also, in case of an emergency, *NHP (*647) can be dialed in case of a roadway emergency or 911 to report a severe accident. And since cell phone service is limited, public phones are located along Lee Canyon Road near Lee Meadows and the Old Mill Picnic Area.

The popularity of Lee and Kyle Canyons during the winter season can bring thousands of cars to the area, especially on weekends and holidays. Visitors are encouraged to go early, be patient, and abide by traffic laws.

Illegally parked vehicles may be fined and towed. In areas where roadside parking is permitted, ensure all tires are over the white line to keep the lane clear.

Officials also warn that no sledding is available in areas with less than 12 inches of snow, near traffic, or other dangerous objects like trees and rocks or under gates and fences.

Visitors are urged to wear appropriate outdoor clothing, including layering light and warm clothing, gloves, hats, scarves, and waterproof boots.

When it comes to public restroom facilities, they are available in Kyle Canyon at the Cliff Rose Trailhead across the traffic circle from the Visitor Gateway and in Lee Canyon at Sawmill Trailhead.

Officials also said pets must be kept on a leash and advised visitors to clean up after themselves with taking trash home or putting it in provided trashcans or dumpsters.

The Spring Mountains Visitor Gateway is located at 2525 Kyle Canyon Road. It is operated by the U.S. Forest Service in partnership with the Southern Nevada Conservancy, with visitor center hours 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.