MARYSVILLE – Caltrans is reminding motorists that now is the time to prepare for wet weather and winter driving, as an early season storm begins to impact the valley, foothills and Sierra Nevada.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) winter outlook, “El Niño will likely influence upcoming winter months (December 2026 to February 2027), with warmer-than-average temperatures expected across the northern U.S.; wetter-than-average conditions likely across the southern U.S.”

What is unknown at this time is how many winter storms will impact the Sacramento Valley and Sierra Nevada, how strong they will be and how much rain or snow will fall. 

This information becomes more apparent with each individual storm and serves as a reminder that motorists should start preparing now for the changing weather pattern.

NOAA map showing winter 2026-27 outlook: above-normal precipitation likely in South and Southeast, below-normal in Pacific Northwest, Great Lakes, and Alaska panhandle, equal chances elsewhere
NOAA map showing winter 2026-27 outlook: above-normal temperatures favored across northern, northeastern, and southwestern US; near-normal likely across Gulf Coast; equal chances elsewhere

Winterize Your Vehicle

  • Check your radiator fluid level and add antifreeze/coolant as needed.
  • Wiper blades should be replaced if needed. Adding a winter formula windshield wiper fluid will help deice your windshield.
  • Make sure your tires are properly inflated and that the tread is in good condition. Snow tires must also have at least 6/32-inch tread depth (about half of the original tread depth).
  • Always carry chains or tire traction devices which meet the requirements of CA Vehicle Code Section 605. 

Be Prepared/Emergency Supplies

Winter Car Kit checklist: flashlight, gloves, lighter, flares, rope, tool set, antifreeze, blanket, first aid kit, tire iron, jumper cables, cat litter, cellphone charger, water, duct tape, rain poncho, tire jack, and emergency contact info
  • Flashlight with extra batteries
  • Blankets, extra clothing, water and snacks
  • Clean, dry towel
  • Gloves
  • Ice scraper/deicer
  • Shovel and broom
  • Spare key
  • Sand or kitty litter

Winter Driving Tips

  • Allow extra time to reach your destination.
  • Keep your fuel tank full or a full electric charge before heading into the Sierra Nevada.
  • Slow down and wear your seat belt. Use low gears to slow your vehicle and avoid using the brakes if possible. Remember that having four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive improves climbing traction but does not help to stop the vehicle.
  • Turn off cruise control. Maintaining control of your vehicle will allow you to react to sudden changes. 
  • Don’t panic if your vehicle begins to slide.
  • Be observant and aware of the potential for black ice.

Additional Driving Tips

  • Fog: Reduce speed, use headlights on low beam. Stay to the right using the white edge line next the shoulder, commonly referred to as the fog line.
  • Flood: Never drive through deep water, turn around and find another route. Watch for items traveling downstream that can create additional hazards. Remember to test the brakes, as wet brakes have lost stopping power and need to be dried out.
  • “Move Over” Law: California state law requires motorists to slow down, and if safe, move over when a Caltrans or emergency vehicle is flashing warning lights. This protects the safety of workers, who face danger from fast moving traffic.

For additional information motorists are encouraged to check the NWS forecast for any updates and Caltrans’ QuickMap before traveling for current road conditions and chain requirements or download the QuickMap app from the App Store or Google Play. Road information is also available on Caltrans’ website or by calling the California Highway Information Network automated phone service at 1-800-427-ROAD (7623).

Caltrans District 3 is responsible for maintaining and operating 4,385 lane miles in 11 Sacramento Valley and Northern Sierra counties.