Reno Daily: Storm Delays, Vacant Apartment Fire, and Winter Hazards

Storm keeps Reno on ice, slows travel and government operations

Icy roads across northern Nevada continued to cause headaches this morning, with slick conditions leading to slowdowns on major routes in and around Reno. State government offices in multiple counties, including Washoe, are operating on delayed schedules as crews work to improve road conditions and officials urge drivers to take it slow and leave extra time for any commute.

Transportation and safety officials say the pattern of freezing temperatures and on‑and‑off snowfall has created patches of black ice, especially on bridges, ramps, and less‑traveled side streets. Residents are being encouraged to work remotely if possible and to check conditions before heading into town or up into the foothills.

State closures and delays follow Tuesday’s severe weather

Tuesday’s winter storm prompted state leaders to close or delay operations at many state offices serving the Reno area. The move was aimed at keeping non‑essential workers off hazardous roads while allowing public safety, corrections, and transportation crews to stay focused on storm response.

Officials noted that the combination of heavy, wet snow, strong winds, and bitter wind chills created periods of dangerous travel, particularly in higher elevations and exposed stretches of highway. Residents were urged to pay close attention to updates from state and local agencies before attempting longer trips in or out of the region.

Wet snow and avalanche danger in the Sierra

The latest round of storms has brought what forecasters describe as very wet snow to the Reno area and the surrounding Sierra, raising concerns about snow loading on trees, roofs, and power lines. Backcountry officials have issued an avalanche watch for the greater Lake Tahoe region, warning that rapid loading and strong winds could trigger large, dangerous slides outside of controlled ski‑area boundaries.

Local outdoor groups and search‑and‑rescue teams are echoing the call for caution, asking backcountry travelers to dial back plans, check the latest avalanche bulletins, and avoid steep, unstable slopes until conditions begin to settle later in the week.

Reno firefighters knock down blaze at vacant Grove Street apartments

Reno fire crews responded Monday evening to a blaze at a vacant apartment building near Grove Street, quickly stopping the fire before it could spread to nearby homes and businesses. Officials say no one was hurt and that the structure was unoccupied at the time.

Investigators are looking into how the fire started, including whether recent squatting activity in the empty complex may have played a role. Neighbors told responders they have been concerned about people coming and going from the vacant site, and the incident is renewing calls for tighter security and faster action on problem properties around the city.

Looking ahead

More unsettled winter weather is expected through midweek, with lingering snow showers, gusty winds, and below‑normal temperatures. Drivers should continue to watch for chain controls and rolling delays in the passes, while those in town can expect icy sidewalks and side streets to remain an issue during the overnight and early morning hours.