REDDING – The National Weather Service is forecasting rain, wind, and winter weather for the Northern California area, starting Wednesday and lasting through the weekend. Snow levels are currently forecast to start around 4,000 – 5,000 feet on Wednesday and continuing to lower throughout the week. Motorists should plan for chain controls in higher elevations and are advised to check weather and roadway conditions prior to and during breaks in travel. Motorists should also follow roadway conditions for the possibility of slides, flooding, and other storm-related hazards.
Higher elevation travel is discouraged during inclement winter weather. Motorists who must travel into higher elevations must carry chains, be prepared for winter driving conditions, expect delays and possible closures, and follow instructions of Caltrans personnel and law enforcement. Motorists who do not comply with chain controls endanger their own safety and the safety of other motorists around them, along with jeopardizing our vital maintenance operations to keep routes open and safe during storms. Truck and/or vehicle screening is anticipated for northbound Interstate 5 traffic at Fawndale Road, approximately ten miles north of Redding, prior to or during the weather systems.
Motorists are reminded to be cognizant when traveling in recent burn scar areas and to slow down and drive carefully during inclement weather. Travelers should not use non-highway alternative routes during highway closures as these routes may not be maintained or open during winter weather events and may have size restrictions for larger vehicles.
24/7 updated highway conditions are available via QuickMap (also available by free app for smartphones) and One-Stop-Shop (Western U.S.). Motorists can also follow Caltrans District 2 on our X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook pages for important traffic updates.
Other helpful resources include:
District 2 Winter Weather Driving Tips Video
Winter Weather Driving Tips
National Weather Service
CHP Traction Control Devices
District 2 Winter Weather Driving Tips Video
Winter Weather Driving Tips
National Weather Service
CHP Traction Control Devices
