Northern California Hit by Rain and Snow: Travel Disruptions Expected

Impact Day Issued Due to Severe Weather

Northern California is experiencing significant rain and snowfall this Tuesday, prompting concerns over localized flooding and traffic disruptions. The KCRA 3 weather team has declared an Impact Day, indicating that the adverse conditions will likely hinder travel and outdoor activities.

Weather Forecast

Expect wet roads during the morning commute, with isolated showers anticipated throughout the afternoon and evening. There’s also a possibility of thunderstorms, which may bring hail. For a detailed weather forecast and updates, click here.

Sierra Snow and Chain Controls

The snowfall in the Sierra Nevada is expected to initiate chain controls on major roadways. Vehicles must have chains during these conditions unless they are equipped with four-wheel drive and snow tires.

• Speed Limit Adjustments:
  • For Interstate 80, the speed limit drops to 30 mph.
  • On Highway 50, the maximum speed limit is reduced to 25 mph.

With these restrictions in place, vehicles and drivers should prepare for a slower journey.

Potential Hazards

Due to the severe weather, power outages and weather-related vehicle accidents are anticipated throughout the day. The KCRA 3 team is closely monitoring the situation.

Live Weather Updates

Here is the latest on road and weather conditions as of 9:49 a.m.:

• Chain Controls in Effect

  • Interstate 80
    • Eastbound: Chains required from Kingvale to Truckee.
    • Westbound: Chains required from the Donner Lake Interchange to 2.5 miles east of the Highway 20 junction.
  • Highway 88: Chains are necessary from 6.5 miles east of Peddler Hill in Amador County to 5 miles west of Picketts Junction in Alpine County.

• Traffic Alerts

  • 8:57 a.m.: The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported debris on westbound Highway 50, following a multi-vehicle crash near East Bidwell Street.
  • 8:26 a.m.: Watt Avenue to eastbound Interstate 80 is closed due to standing water, affecting the carpool and No. 1 lanes.
  • 7:02 a.m.: Flooding reported on westbound Interstate 80 at the Mace Boulevard off-ramp.
  • 6:30 a.m.: The No. 3 lane on westbound Highway 50 is blocked by a crash, leading to localized flooding in adjacent lanes.

Stay Updated

For real-time traffic conditions, refer to our interactive traffic map. For ongoing weather tracking, utilize our Doppler radar.

Follow Us for More Updates

Stay informed by following the KCRA weather team on social media for timely updates:

• Meteorologist Tamara Berg on Facebook
• Meteorologist Dirk Verdoorn on Facebook
• Meteorologist Heather Waldman on Facebook
• Meteorologist Kelly Curran on Twitter
• Meteorologist Ophelia Young on Facebook

Watch Our Forecasts

To view video forecasts and live updates, visit our weather page, where you can also access a livestream of the latest newscast.

Stay safe and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Plan your travel accordingly and ensure your vehicles are adequately equipped for winter weather. For more information and tips, explore additional resources related to emergency preparedness and winter driving safety.