Los Angeles, California – Heavy snow and 70 mph wind gusts could shut down stretches of Interstate 5 over the Grapevine overnight, creating near whiteout conditions before sunrise Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Los Angeles/Oxnard, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 7 a.m. PST Friday 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, with 6 to 12 inches above 4,500 feet. Wind gusts between 60 and 70 mph could intensify blowing snow this afternoon through late tonight.
Tejon Pass, Pyramid Lake, Gorman, Figueroa Mountain, and the Topatopa Mountains face the greatest impacts. Falling and blowing snow may reduce visibility below one-quarter mile at times. Bridges and overpasses will become slick quickly as temperatures drop, and chain controls or road closures are possible along I-5.
Travelers should delay mountain travel if possible. If driving is unavoidable, keep extra distance between vehicles, avoid sudden braking, and ensure your vehicle is winter-ready.
The warning remains in effect through early Friday morning, with conditions gradually improving after sunrise as snowfall tapers and winds ease.
