The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Flood Watch for late Saturday through Monday afternoon. Some foothill areas could see up to 10 inches of rain and up to 5 inches in Valley areas. Ponding on roadways, small-stream flooding and debris and ash flows on burn scars from the Caldor Fire near U.S. Highway 50 could impact travel.
Wind gusts of 30-45 mph forecast for Sunday also could present hazardous conditions.
NWS issued a Winter Storm Watch for late Sunday evening into Tuesday. Donner Summit on Interstate 80 could receive up to 18 inches of snow and up to 12 inches over Echo Summit on Highway 50. Snow is expected to start falling late Sunday night at about 7,500 elevation and drop down to lower elevations on Monday. Chain controls may be required over mountain passes.
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. The speed limit is 30 mph on I-80 and 25 mph on 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 automated phone service at 1-800-427-ROAD (7623).