Grapevine, CA – Drivers on Interstate 5 over the Grapevine face slick pavement and sudden bursts of snow through 7 a.m. Friday, with up to 4 inches expected at higher elevations and wind gusts reaching 45 mph.
According to the National Weather Service in Hanford, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for the Grapevine and Lebec area until 7 a.m. Friday. Light to moderate snow will continue, bringing up to 4 inches mainly above 3,500 feet. Near the Grapevine summit, additional accumulations could approach 1 inch. Snow levels will stay below 3,000 feet through late morning, rise above 4,000 feet this afternoon, then fall again to around 2,000 feet tonight.
The fluctuating snow levels could quickly change conditions along I-5, especially on elevated stretches and overpasses. Blowing snow and 45 mph gusts may reduce visibility and increase the risk of spinouts during the evening and early Friday morning commute. Tree branches could also snap under wind stress.
Drivers should slow down, allow extra stopping distance and check road conditions by calling 511 before traveling. Keep emergency supplies in your vehicle in case traffic stalls. The warning remains in effect through early Friday, and additional restrictions are possible if snowfall intensifies overnight.
