Nevada Tornado Warning Issued Amid Severe Storms

A tornado warning was issued for portions of Storey, Washoe, and Lyon counties in western Nevada on Thursday afternoon as severe thunderstorms produced threats of large hail and flash flooding. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Reno reported that a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located near Derby Dam and moving east.

The NWS indicated that radar showed rotation within the storm, leading to the tornado warning. Forecasters also warned of potential hazards including quarter-sized hail, strong winds, flying debris, and damage to structures and vehicles. Residents in the warned areas were advised to move to interior rooms on the lowest floor of sturdy buildings and stay away from windows. Those outdoors, in mobile homes, or vehicles were directed to seek substantial shelter and protect themselves from debris.

While a tornado was reported to have touched down in Storey County, possibly near USA Parkway, meteorologists suggested it was a weak tornado and likely caused minimal damage due to its location in a rural area. The NWS stated that tornadoes are rare in Nevada, with only one or two occurring annually, typically in the central part of the state.

In addition to the tornado threat, the severe storms brought heavy rain, leading to a separate flash flood warning for parts of Storey and Washoe counties. The NWS reported that between 0.8 and 1.5 inches of rain had already fallen in some warned areas, causing or threatening to cause flooding in urban areas, roadways, and low-lying regions.