CATHLEEN ALLISON/NEVADA APPEAL An unidentified couple walk throught the rain on Monday afternoon in front of Smiths in Carson City. A chance of rain and snow will continue in the area through the New Year.
The Nevada Highway Patrol is warning drivers to be cautious this week when a chance of rain and snow continues for the next seven days.
"We have some pretty bad roads right now," said NHP Trooper Rob Stepien. "If you're going to travel over mountain passes, know your vehicle and equipment."
Chains or snow tires were mandatory across about 435 miles of highway and interstate throughout Northern Nevada on Monday.
Mount Rose Highway was closed for about an hour to clean up a series of accidents and slide-offs, including a jack-knifed tractor trailer.
Heavy rain and scattered snow showers dampened Carson City, and forecasters called for up to 2 inches of precipitation by this morning.
A winter storm warning issued Monday until 6 p.m. was extended until 9 p.m.
"It looks like we'll have a chance of precipitation right through next week," said Al Cox, weather service specialist with the National Weather Service. "We do have a chance of precipitation on both New Year's Eve and New Year's Day."
Stepien urged drivers to be aware of conditions and adjust their driving accordingly.
"Speed limits have no bearing in snowy conditions," he said. "Most of the accidents are caused by people driving too fast for the road surface. When braking or turning is needed, it's too late."
When chains are mandatory, Stepien said drivers should not try to risk driving without them.
And caution should also be exercised when chaining up.
"If you're going to be putting your chains on, please pull over to a designated spot or off the highway," he said. "We've seen people chaining up in the middle of the road. It's so dangerous. There's no room for error in that."
As always, driving under the influence of alcohol is a deadly combination, and the best protection is to wear a seat belt.
"You may be the best driver in the snow, but you also have to worry about the other car," Stepien said.
More rain and snow are expected today, with a high of 44 degrees.
The Association Press reported winds gusting to 60 mph, which added to the hazardous driving conditions at higher elevations.
Contact Teri Vance at tvance@nevadaappeal.com or at 881-1272.
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