Los Angeles, CA – Snow and powerful wind gusts could shut down stretches of the Interstate 5 Grapevine within hours, as up to 12 inches of accumulation and 70 mph winds batter higher elevations through 7 a.m. Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Los Angeles/Oxnard, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for the Interstate 5 Corridor, Santa Barbara County Interior Mountains and Southern Ventura County Mountains. Snow totals of 1 to 4 inches are possible between 3,500 and 4,500 feet, including the Grapevine near Tejon Pass, while elevations above 4,500 feet could see 6 to 12 inches.
Gorman, Pyramid Lake and Figueroa Mountain are likely to experience rapidly changing conditions this afternoon into late tonight. Wind gusts between 60 and 70 mph may reduce visibility below a quarter mile in blowing snow and create dangerous crosswinds for high-profile vehicles.
Bridges and overpasses will ice first as temperatures drop, increasing the risk of spinouts on steep grades. Caltrans crews may implement chain controls or temporary closures if snowfall rates intensify.
Drivers should delay travel over Tejon Pass if possible. If travel is unavoidable, reduce speed, carry chains and prepare for sudden whiteout conditions. Additional updates are expected as the storm peaks overnight.
