Strong Storm Expected to Impact Holiday Travel

MARYSVILLE - Caltrans is alerting motorists about the next round of winter weather that is expected to heavily impact travel across the Sierra Nevada starting tonight.

The National Weather Service (NWS) forecast calls for up to 1 foot of snow above 4,500 feet and 4 to 8 feet above 5,500 feet, with wind gusts up to 60 mph. A Winter Storm Warning is in effect from 10 p.m. today through 10 p.m. Friday.

Motorists are encouraged to avoid holiday travel if possible. If motorists will be traveling through the Sierra Nevada, be prepared for chain controls, additional travel times and 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.

In the Sacramento Valley and Delta, the forecast calls for 2 to 3 inches of rain and up to 6 inches in the foothills. The NWS has issued a High Wind Warning from 4 p.m. today through 4 p.m. Thursday with sustained winds 25 to 35 mph and gusts up to 60 mph expected.

Motorists traveling in the Valley should be prepared for wet weather, additional travel times and delays. Caltrans advises that vehicles have properly functioning headlights and windshield wipers and not to drive through flooded roads.

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. The department issues updates on X @CaltransDist3 and on Facebook CaltransDistrict3.