Caltrans
District 3 is alerting motorists to prepare for snowy driving conditions in the
Sierra Nevada region and watch for flash floods in areas impacted by the Camp
Fire Wednesday through Friday.
The National
Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Holiday Storm Warning for a weather system
expected to arrive Wednesday afternoon and continue through Friday morning.
Periods of heavy rainfall are expected in Northern California turning to snow
above 5,500 feet as the storm system moves into the Sierra Nevada. Snowfall for
Donner Summit is predicted to be 8 to 12 inches with lower levels of snow in
South Lake Tahoe Wednesday and Thursday. Snow levels are expected to rise to
7,000 feet Friday, impacting Donner Summit traffic.
This
storm, in addition to increased traffic for the Thanksgiving holiday, will
result in traffic delays for motorists. Those traveling through the Sierra
region Wednesday afternoon and evening should account for significantly
increased travel time.
Chain
controls on Interstate 80 over Donner Summit, on U.S. Highway 50 over Echo
Summit and on other Sierra mountain roadways should be anticipated Wednesday
afternoon through Friday morning. Caltrans permitted and trained chain
installers on Interstate 80 can be identified by a reflective sign with their
bib number.
Moderate
to heavy rain is forecasted beginning Wednesday afternoon and will continue
into Friday morning. Motorists should be alert for potential flash floods in
Butte and Plumas counties caused by ash or debris flow in new burn scar areas
caused by the Camp Fire.
In preparation for the rain in impacted Camp Fire areas, Caltrans has been
working with cooperating local and state agencies to protect infrastructure and
mitigate for post-fire floods and debris flow. Highway maintenance crews have
been cleaning and checking culverts, installing straw wattles, and performing
hydro-seeding and erosion control operations along State Routes 191 and 70.
Severe weather may slow motorists, resulting in roadway congestion. Wet and
slippery roadways reduce tire traction, especially at high vehicle speeds.
Hydroplaning caused by vehicle speed and rain accumulations on the roadway can
result in loss of driver control. Motorists are encouraged to slow down and
observe the following winter driving tips:
·
Reduce
speeds during winter weather and allow for additional stopping time.
·
Turn
on headlights to see and be seen and turn off cruise control.
·
Watch
for snow removal equipment. Only pass snow removal vehicles when a safe, legal
passing area is available and sight distance is good.
·
Use
extra caution on bridges, ramps, and shaded areas; they may freeze first.
·
If
your vehicle begins to skid, steer in the direction of the slide and slowly
remove your foot from the accelerator.