“Now gusting 209 mph as of 745 AM! This could potentially be a new California state record wind speed if verified! However, the verification process takes several months to complete.” –Kirkwood
It has not yet been confirmed but Kirkwoord Ski Resort in South Lake, Tahoe is reporting they measured 209mph gusts at the peak and may have set a new record for strongest winds ever recorded in the state of California.
🚨MOUNTAIN UPDATE🚨
Due to strong and increasing winds across the mountain (gusts as high as 209 mph) Kirkwood will be CLOSING FOR THE DAY to ensure guest and employee safety. Dining locations will remain open for guests and staff staying in the valley.— Kirkwood Mountain Resort (@KirkwoodMTN) February 9, 2020
The record setting wind blast was captured around 7:45 a.m. by an instrument at 9,186 feet on Kirkwood Mountain. The previous record was a gust of 199 mph at Ward Mountain west of Lake Tahoe on Nov. 16, 2017.
The storm system brought a strong cold front to California, but not much rain or snow. Waves cresting at 5 feet were recorded on Lake Tahoe, where air temperatures dipped below freezing.
Kirkwood now gusting 209 MPH! This could potentially be a new California state record wind speed if verified! https://t.co/WeWzntYjLt
— NWS Reno (@NWSReno) February 9, 2020