Strong winds related to an atmospheric river that hit California will push into western Nevada later this evening, with wind gusts topping 120 mph, equivalent to a Category 3 hurricane.

A bomb cyclone brought dangerous weather conditions across the Pacific Northwest earlier this week, causing power outages for more than half a million people and killing at least two. That too started an atmospheric flood, which led to heavy rains across the northern half of California.

Winds related to that storm will blow through Nevada today ahead of precipitation that will dump several feet of snow in high elevation areas.

A High Wind Warning is in effect for the Reno, Nevada forecast region.

“Southerly winds 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 65 mph. Wind prone areas may reach 80 mph gusts. Highest winds will occur between 5:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m.,” the warning said.

On ridge tops, gusts would hit “significant” 125 mph, NWS meteorologist Gigi Giralte said Newsweek. If the winds reach that speed, they will only be 5 km/h for a Category 4 hurricane.

“Now is the time to secure loose items outdoors such as patio furniture, holiday decorations and trash cans before winds increase that can blow these items away,” the warning said. “The best thing you can do is prepare ahead of time by making sure you have extra food and water on hand, flashlights with spare batteries and/or lights in case of power outages.”

Strong winds will continue in the area overnight. The warning will remain in place until 1 a.m. local time on Saturday.

Other wind-related weather warnings for Reno include a red flag warning, as low humidity ahead of the incoming precipitation increases the risk of wildfires combined with the gusty winds. A marine wind advisory was also in place for Lake Tahoe and Pyramid Lake, as strong winds would make recreating there dangerous.

In addition to the wind warnings, the Reno NWS office also issued a winter weather warning for the incoming weather. The snow will make travel difficult, with the heaviest amounts forecast for elevations above 7,000 feet.

Giralte said the strong winds, as well as the heavy snow, have prompted the Sierra Avalanche Center to issue an avalanche watch for recreationists in the area. Strong winds increase the risk of avalanches.

“A severe storm with large amounts of new snow, rain and strong winds can cause widespread avalanche activity in the mountains. Avalanches large enough to bury people or knock down large trees can occur in backcountry areas,” the avalanche watcher said. “Very dangerous avalanche conditions are possible Friday night and Saturday. Travel in, near or under backcountry avalanche terrain is not recommended.”

Earlier this week, the “powerful” atmospheric river prompted the Mount Shasta Avalanche Center to issue an avalanche alert warning for part of Northern California.