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As winter blankets Lake Tahoe in a furious snowstorm, ski resorts are grappling with treacherous conditions that have forced closures across the region. If you’re planning a ski trip to Tahoe, you might want to hold off for a day or two or prepare for some epic powder days to follow!
The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning in response to a significant weather pattern delivering between 1 to 4 feet of snow across the Sierra Nevada from March 30 to April 2, 2025. Heavy snowfall combined with powerful winds is creating conditions where visibility is near-zero, leading to the closure of notable ski resorts.
As of March 31, ski resorts like Sierra-at-Tahoe and Ski Tahoe are closed due to severe weather. Sierra-at-Tahoe attempted to open its slopes today, but whiteout conditions and gusty winds reaching up to 70 mph forced them to shut down operations. The resort stated on social media, "Our teams gave it all they got to get lifts spinning, but due to the whiteout conditions + strong winds, Sierra will remain closed for the day, for the safety of guests + staff." This highlights the safety measures resorts must take during extreme weather events.
For those who had plans to hit the slopes today, it’s advisable to check the weather and resort updates regularly. The Sierra Avalanche Center has also issued a high avalanche warning across the central Sierra range, with avalanche danger rated at '4-High'. In their forecast, forecaster Andy Anderson warns against traveling in, near, or below avalanche terrain. When venturing into the backcountry, it’s critical to stick to low-angle terrain and avoid areas where avalanches are likely to occur.
Despite the rough conditions now, this storm could pave the way for fantastic skiing opportunities in the coming weeks. Resorts like Donner Ski Ranch, which is closed today and tomorrow, are optimistic about reopening by Wednesday, April 2, for an unforgettable powder day. As they humorously noted in an Instagram post, "4 feet of snow in 48 hours" is not only a challenge but also a precursor to excellent skiing come mid-week.
As we look at the current storm impact on Lake Tahoe's ski resorts, here’s a quick summary of the closures and conditions:
| Ski Resort | Current Status | Snowfall Report | Opening Plans |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sierra-at-Tahoe | Closed | 6-16 inches reported so far | Unknown - weather permitting |
| Ski Tahoe | Closed | Heavy snowfall expected | Reopening by April 1, 2025 |
| Donner Ski Ranch | Closed | 4 feet expected by April 2 | Reopening April 2, 2025 |
As you prepare for your next ski adventure, keep an eye on local weather reports and resort updates for the best experience. The heavy snowfall might seem inconvenient now, but it can lead to some of the best skiing conditions in the upcoming weeks. Stay safe out there, whether you’re shredding the slopes or cozying up at your cabin!
For those eager to stay updated, subscribing to ski newsletters, like the Powder To The People newsletter, can provide you with the latest stories and conditions straight from the slopes.
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