Clark County announced Tuesday night a voluntary evacuation notice for the Kyle and Lee Canyon areas of Mt. Charleston due to the risk of avalanches from recent snowfall. As of Thursday night, 8 News NOW has learned that the voluntary evacuation notice will remain in effect throughout the weekend.

“The recent accumulation of snowfall has put the Mount Charleston at high risk for avalanches,” said Clark County Deputy Fire Chief John Steinbeck, who oversees the county’s Office of Emergency Management. “We will continue to monitoring conditions and will advise the public of any changes in the threat or activity level. At this time, we are taking steps to make the public aware of the situation so residents and visitors can make the best decisions for themselves.”

A reported 58 inches has fallen at the Kyle Canyon Fire Station since Jan. 18. On Monday, the Lee Canyon Ski Area reported a depth of 94 inches of snow.

Conditions are being monitored by local, state and federal officials to determine if additional precautions should be taken.

Metro Police and Nevada Highway Patrol troopers will monitor traffic congestion and road conditions closely in both canyons, so motorists can expect temporary closures along Nevada State Routes 156 (Lee Canyon Road), 157 (Kyle Canyon Road) and 158 (Deer Creek Road) to regulate safe access.

Visitors are encouraged to check driving conditions, chain requirements, and road closures before traveling to the mountain. For real-time road information, dial 511 within Nevada, 1-877-NV-ROADS (1-877-687-6237) outside of Nevada, or visit www.GoMtCharleston.com

According to the U.S. Forest Service, any terrain with a slope steeper than 30 degrees may be prone to avalanches. The presence of people, new snow, and the wind can trigger avalanches. The following are a few of the warning signs of unstable snow and possible avalanches:

You see an avalanche happen or see evidence of previous slides.

Cracks form in the snow around your feet or skis.

The ground feels hollow underfoot.

You hear a “whumping” sound as you walk, which indicates that the snow is settling and a slab might release.

Significant warming or rapidly increasing temperatures.

Tuesday night, the Southern Nevada Chapter of the American Red Cross opened a shelter for Mt. Charleston residents who may want to self-evacuate due to the avalanche risk on the mountain. As of Thursday night, the shelter is only being used as a stand-by shelter.

It is located at the YMCA Centennial Hills Community Center at 6601 N. Buffalo Drive. Contact Frank Rutkowski with the Red Cross for more information: (702) 232-6604.