After experiencing one of the slowest starts to ski season in decades, snow has finally arrived in the Tahoe region - and more could be on the way, the National Weather Service's Reno office says. Areas above 8,000 feet in the Tahoe Basin are expected to receive between 12 to 18 inches of snow this week, the weather service says. Further south, Mono County is slated to receive 18 to 24 inches above 8,500 feet.
Travellers are advised to watch out for signs of methanol poisoning such as blurry vision and confusion, which can lead to serious illness and death. Methanol is an industrial chemical found in antifreeze and windscreen washer fluid. It is not meant for human consumption and is highly toxic. But there have been instances of unscrupulous backyard brewers adding methanol to drinks to make them go further, and some bars and street sellers mixing it with spirit-based drinks and cocktails to cut costs.
Authorities have warned residents to avoid unnecessary travel as waters inundate transportation infrastructure. Flood warnings were issued due to heavy rain causing travel chaos and fatalities.