MARYSVILLE March 25, 2019 – Caltrans is alerting motorists to a couple of spring storms that will impact mountain and valley highway travel in Northern California today through Thursday.
The National Weather Service (NWS) is anticipating two spring storms this week that will deliver rain in the valley and foothill areas with feet of snow possible at higher elevations. Motorists are encouraged to prepare for travel delays and snowy conditions in the mountains.
The first, weaker storm is expected to arrive this afternoon and last through midday Tuesday. The valley could see 0.25 to 1 inch of rain, with snow levels at 5,500 feet and 8 to 12 inches of fresh powder predicted at higher peaks.
A second, stronger storm is anticipated Tuesday evening through Thursday morning with increased rain and snowfall amounts. The foothills may see 1.5 to 3.5 inches of rain with snow levels dropping to 4,000 feet by Thursday morning. Snow amounts of 1 to 3 feet are possible at mountain peaks.
Delays, chain controls and longer travel times are anticpated due to inclement weather conditions. Caltrans reminds drivers to come prepared for winter driving with appropriate traction devices. Chain installers on Interstate 80 and U.S. Highway 50 are not permitted to sell chains to motorists. Further tips for safe winter driving and information about chain controls can be found at http://www.dot.ca.gov/cttravel/winter.html.
Check out Caltrans’ “QuickMap” for current road conditions and chain requirements at http://quickmap.dot.ca.gov. For real-time traffic, download the QuickMap app on iTunes or Google Play. Motorists also can use the California Highway Information Network automated phone service by calling 1-800-427-ROAD (7623).