Wacky summer weather hammers central Nevada

Thunderstorms and high winds moved through the area for three days as unsettled weather lowered temperatures to the lower 90s.

The National Weather Service in Reno reported rain and strong winds hit central Nevada Sunday and Monday. Heavy downpours Monday afternoon and evening caused problems primarily in Lyon County and slowed traffic down to 40 miles per hour near Lahontan Reservoir.

The Lyon County Road Department closed the Ramsey Weeks Cutoff between Highway 50 and US 95A in Silver Springs to clean mud and debris from a flash flood that occurred Monday afternoon. The road reopened several hours later.

Strong winds later knocked down about 18 power poles on Fernley’s Farm District Road due to the storm. Lyon County repeated a flash flood warning from the NWS for Tuesday. Lyon County crews were still cleaning up from Monday’s storms in East Mason Valley and Silver Springs.

The city of Fernley was hit hard with a weather event knocking down trees, power poles and causing minor damage to several structures. Lyon County officials are gearing up to respond to any issues, said County Manager Jeff Page.

“Portions of Farm District Road will remain closed as NV Energy continues with their work, and as NDOT continues clean up measures along the road,” Page said. “The City is asking residents for their assistance and patience, (so) please be cautious and aware of utility crews.”

For those residents who are still without power, Page said NV Energy is anticipating power to be restored by Wednesday morning.

The NWS reported lightning over Fallon and to the east toward Austin for two days. Several brush fires broke out Sunday and Monday.

Lightning caused several small brush fires, one near the fairgrounds Sunday afternoon.

The NWS said monsoonal moisture remains over northeast California and western and west-central Nevada. Tuesday’s storms were predicted to be capable of producing localized heavy rainfall with the potential for flash flooding and debris flows.

Steep terrain and recent burned areas from wildfires will be especially susceptible to flash flooding and debris flows.

For any flash-flood warning, the NWS offers the following precaution: “People in the watch area should continue to be aware of the possibility for heavy rainfall, avoid low lying areas, and be careful when approaching highway dips and underpasses. Do not drive your vehicle into areas where water covers the road. The road may be washed out or the water depth may be too great to allow your car to cross safely.”