Weaverville, California – Drivers heading over Scott Mountain on Highway 3 face chain controls and possible road closures overnight as heavy snow and 55 mph wind gusts slam elevations above 4,500 feet through 3 p.m. Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service in Eureka, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for Northern Trinity County until 3 p.m. Sunday. Forecasters expect up to 10 inches of snow at higher elevations, with the strongest winds along exposed ridgelines and mountain passes.
Snow will intensify overnight and continue through Sunday morning, creating hazardous travel conditions across Scott Mountain and surrounding high terrain. Blowing snow could reduce visibility sharply, especially during heavier bursts. Gusts up to 55 mph may snap tree limbs and down power lines, increasing the risk of localized outages in remote areas.
Caltrans may implement chain requirements with little notice, and temporary closures are possible if conditions deteriorate. Officials urge travelers to delay non-essential trips, carry tire chains, and check road conditions by calling 511 before heading into the mountains.
Conditions should gradually improve late Sunday afternoon, but slick spots could linger into Sunday evening as temperatures remain cold at higher elevations.
