Heavy Snow Expected to Impact Weekend Mountain Travel

MARYSVILLE - Caltrans is alerting motorists about several rounds of heavy snow on its way to the Sierra Nevada that could create challenging mountain travel conditions through the beginning of next week.

The National Weather Service is forecasting 1 to 4 feet of snow over several days with gusty winds up to 50 mph. A Winter Storm Warning is in effect from 4 p.m. Friday through 4 p.m. Tuesday, November 26. Snow levels are expected to start initially around 6,000 feet and lowering to 4,500 feet over the weekend.

Motorists should be prepared for chain controls, additional travel times and possible delays. Caltrans advises to make sure your vehicle has a full tank of gas or full charge, chains, and extra supplies in the event of an emergency or if traffic is held for an extended period of time. Those supplies should include extra snacks, water, a blanket and a flashlight.

Additional rainfall between 1 and 2 inches is expected in the Sacramento Valley, with the highest amounts forecast across the northern valley and foothill locations. Motorists should be prepared for slick roads, ponding water on roadways and potential flooding onto the highway. If drivers see a flooded roadway, turn around.