Thursday could be one of the warmest days of the year so far. In the Sierra, they are seeing up to 70 degrees, which translates to al lot of snow starting to melt.
In downtown Truckee, residents are taking advantage of the warm weather. The Truckee River, which is flowing quickly with the snow melt, is around 46 degrees.
Town of Truckee Emergency Services Manger Robert Womack says this is unique because the melt is happening earlier and faster than expected.
In an uncommon sight for April, snow shovels are scraping the patio of the popular restaurant Jax at the Tracks. Jaime Ortiz ,the manager, was out shoveling in an effort to open the patio.
“This year was different because we got so much (snow) and we are going to melt,” said Ortiz.
Ortiz says not being able to offer outdoor seating has impacted their business by missing out on customers.
“I can see the difference, which is why we are trying to get it open by next week,” said Ortiz.
Womack says the town isn’t concerned about being overwhelmed by snowmelt. They expect some standing water near low lying areas. Residents like Caitlynn Tharp also aren’t too concerned about flooding.
“It's definitely melting pretty quickly from our house, but I’m not too worried about it. I’m a water resource engineer,” said Tharp.
The National Weather Service predicts the Truckee River will rise just below nine feet with the warmer weather heading into the weekend - still three feet below action flood stage.
“I’ve actually done a modeling of this creek in the past, so I think it will take a bit more to flood in Truckee but this weekend will tell, I guess,” said Tharp.
With the warmer weekend coming up, many residents getting a chance for some outdoor recreation that doesn’t involve snow for the first time this season.
“I’m excited to get back out hiking, so I’m OK if it all melts,” said Tharp.
Emergency Services warns back country activities will look very different and asks hikers to check before they head out. There’s a big chance trails will be covered by snow later into the season.
The water temperature is a brisk 46 degrees, and the town says streams that are running really high and really fast are a big concern. They caution all residents to stay away from the water.
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