Winter Weather — South-central Elko, Nevada

2023-03-10 · South-central Elko, Nevada

Event narrative

A multi-vehicle accident took place in the morning hours of the 10th along US-93 (MM45). All lanes of traffic were subsequently closed for 5 hours. No injuries or deaths were reported. US-93 was closed from the city of Wells, NV (MM73) south to Lages Junction (MM0), an approximate 80 mile stretch or road. Weather conditions were gusty with SE winds 20-30 mph with gusts up to 40 mph. The direction of the wind was blowing perpendicular to the roadway leading to possible blowing snow and reduced visibility. Decision support was given to DOT with a live weather briefing the day prior as well as partner emails in the days leading up to the event. A Wind Advisory was also in effect for the area. NDOT had extra snow removal equipment in the area.

Wider weather episode

An AR event brought high winds and snow transitioning to rain, resulting in some snowmelt and extensive flooding in the area of Eureka, NV. An estimated $7 Million in damages occurred with the flooding. Damage coasts have been estimated, and split between the 7 entries from Eureka County. The Yomba Tribe, near the town of Austin, also experienced flooding estimated to be around $5.5 Million in damages.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1079706. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.