Low Elevation Snow and Chain Controls Anticipated
MARYSVILLE – Following a weak weekend weather system, a stronger storm system is anticipated today through Thursday, delivering periods of valley rain and mountain snow, according to the National Weather Service.
Beginning tonight, snow levels in the Sierra are expected to drop to 2,000-3,000 feet with 1-5 inches possible overnight. Between Tuesday and Thursday morning, another 5-10 inches of snow is anticpated with low snow levels between 2,000-3,500 feet. Current forecasts indicate heavier snow and travel impacts Tuesday. Motorists are urged to use caution when traveling in the Sierra.
In the valley and foothill areas, periods of moderate rain and afternoon thunderstorms are expected with 0.5-1 inch possible in Chico and Grass Valley, and 0.25-0.5 inch anticipated in the Sacramento area. Motorists are advised to be alert for slick roads and roadway ponding throughout the week.
Caltrans reminds drivers to winterize vehicles by ensuring tires are properly inflated and have good tread, and to stock up with water, blankets, snacks, a flashlight and a full tank of gas before mountain travel. Further tips for safe winter driving and information about chain controls can be found at dot.ca.gov/travel/winter-driving-tips.
Motorists also are reminded to carry traction-control devices in their vehicles as permitted highway chain installers do not sell traction devices. Periods of chain control are anticipated during both storms with posted speed limits of 30 mph on Interstate 80 and 25 mph on U.S. Highway 50 during chain-enforcement periods.
Check out Caltrans' “QuickMap” for current road conditions and chain requirements at quickmap.dot.ca.gov/ or download the free QuickMap app on the App Store or Google Play. Motorists also can call the California Highway Information Network automated phone service at 1-800-427-ROAD (7623).
MARYSVILLE – Following a weak weekend weather system, a stronger storm system is anticipated today through Thursday, delivering periods of valley rain and mountain snow, according to the National Weather Service.
Beginning tonight, snow levels in the Sierra are expected to drop to 2,000-3,000 feet with 1-5 inches possible overnight. Between Tuesday and Thursday morning, another 5-10 inches of snow is anticpated with low snow levels between 2,000-3,500 feet. Current forecasts indicate heavier snow and travel impacts Tuesday. Motorists are urged to use caution when traveling in the Sierra.
In the valley and foothill areas, periods of moderate rain and afternoon thunderstorms are expected with 0.5-1 inch possible in Chico and Grass Valley, and 0.25-0.5 inch anticipated in the Sacramento area. Motorists are advised to be alert for slick roads and roadway ponding throughout the week.
Caltrans reminds drivers to winterize vehicles by ensuring tires are properly inflated and have good tread, and to stock up with water, blankets, snacks, a flashlight and a full tank of gas before mountain travel. Further tips for safe winter driving and information about chain controls can be found at dot.ca.gov/travel/winter-driving-tips.
Motorists also are reminded to carry traction-control devices in their vehicles as permitted highway chain installers do not sell traction devices. Periods of chain control are anticipated during both storms with posted speed limits of 30 mph on Interstate 80 and 25 mph on U.S. Highway 50 during chain-enforcement periods.
Check out Caltrans' “QuickMap” for current road conditions and chain requirements at quickmap.dot.ca.gov/ or download the free QuickMap app on the App Store or Google Play. Motorists also can call the California Highway Information Network automated phone service at 1-800-427-ROAD (7623).
