Sacramento, CA – Drivers planning to cross California’s mountain regions are being urged to reconsider travel plans as a powerful winter storm brings dangerous to nearly impossible conditions across the Sierra Nevada through the end of the week.
According to the National Weather Service Sacramento, gusty winds combined with periods of heavy snow will significantly reduce visibility, create whiteout conditions, and cause rapidly deteriorating road conditions beginning Tuesday night and lasting through Friday afternoon. Officials say the best and safest travel window is now through Tuesday afternoon, before conditions worsen.
The storm is expected to impact major mountain corridors across Northern California, including routes in Placer, El Dorado, Nevada, and Alpine counties, with spillover impacts for travelers heading to or from the Sacramento metro area and western Nevada.
Forecasters warn that wind-driven snow may reduce visibility to near zero at times, making it difficult or impossible to see other vehicles, road edges, or hazards. Heavy snowfall rates could overwhelm snow removal efforts, leading to prolonged closures, chain controls, and hazardous driving even for experienced winter motorists.
Transportation officials recommend avoiding mountain travel altogether during the peak of the storm. Those who must travel are urged to check conditions frequently at quickmap.dot.ca.gov, carry emergency supplies, and be prepared for long delays or sudden closures.
Conditions are expected to gradually improve late Friday, depending on storm progression.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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