Alpine under flood advisory as wet storms continue

Parts of Alpine County and the Lake Tahoe basin are under a small stream flood advisory until 1 p.m., according to the National Weather Service.

Moderate to heavy precipitation will continue over the Sierra crest, with snow levels at 8,000 feet. Forecasters expect 1-1.5 inches of rain, which combined with snowmelt could create excessive runoff on some streams. Among the smaller creeks affected are Donner Creek in Truckee, Trout Creek near South Lake Tahoe and General Creek near Meeks Bay.

Rain has swollen Western Nevada rivers and streams, but no alerts have been issued.

The West Fork of the Carson River in Woodfords might nudge flood stage around midnight tonight, as rain swells Sierra waterways. According to the U.S. Geological Survey gauge placed above Woodfords, the river will hit 13.7 feet, approaching its 14-foot flood stage, but not quite there.

The river's record crest is 15.36 feet in the flood of 1997. But there are some minor effects to the flooding. Mottsville Lane is beginning to feel the effects, with water lapping into the eastbound lanes.

The East Fork of the Carson River is expected to crest at 5.9 feet, more than three and a half feet short of its flood stage.

A wind advisory takes effect in Carson Valley starting at 10 a.m., as a new storm rolls into Western Nevada. The strongest winds with speeds of 20-35 mph, with gusts of up to 55 mph, are expected to occur between noon and 6 p.m.

Highway 395 through Washoe and Carson Valley may see gusts of up to 65 mph.

The Weather Service is advising drivers of high-profile vehicles to use caution and property owners to secure objects, including outdoor furniture.