Significant Snow and Travel Disruptions in the Sierra Region

SLOUGHHOUSE, Calif. — As wet weather continues to impact the Sierra region, travel delays and hazardous conditions are expected through Monday. With heavy snowfall already causing road closures and dangerous driving situations, Sunday has been designated as an Impact Day, particularly affecting travel plans and outdoor activities.

Live Weather Updates and Road Conditions

Sunday Highlights

• 2:34 p.m.: Eastbound Highway 88 is closed at Dew Drop due to “multiple vehicle incidents” caused by heavy snowfall. Motorists are advised to find alternate routes.

• 2:23 p.m.: The Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District reported a successful water rescue in Sloughhouse; the victim was safely removed from a vehicle submerged in floodwater, which will remain until water levels recede. Road closures are in effect on either side.

• 1:33 p.m.: Highway 50 has reopened from Echo Summit to Meyers, offering some relief for stranded travelers.

• 12:48 p.m.: Deer Creek has reached flood stage at Scott Road, showing water levels of 162.91 feet against a flood threshold of 161.87 feet.

• 11:25 a.m.: The Sacramento County Department of Transportation announced closures on several roads due to flooding, including:

  • Sorento Road between Elverta and Rio Linda
  • Kiefer Boulevard from Highway 16 (Jackson Road) to Kiefer Landfill
  • Scott Road between Boys Ranch and Latrobe roads
    Motorists are reminded not to drive through high water.

• 11:00 a.m.: Palisades Tahoe ski resort reported receiving 14 inches of snow in the last 24 hours, with an expected total of 24 to 30 inches more by Monday.

Driving and Safety Precautions

Due to adverse weather conditions, chain controls have been implemented across various highways. Travelers should adhere to the following requirements:

• I-80: Eastbound chains from Kingvale to Truckee; westbound from the Donner Lake Interchange to 4.7 miles west of Kingvale.
• Highway 50: Chain controls are enforced from Twin Bridges to Meyers.
• Highway 88: Chains required from Cooks Station to one mile west of Woodfords.

Past Conditions (Saturday)

On Saturday evening, travelers reported slippery road conditions along I-80 in Soda Springs amidst falling snow. Delays were reported due to road spinouts, underscoring the importance of vehicle preparedness and caution.

Saturday’s Weather

Meteorologists recorded rainfall totals from across Northern California, highlighting:

• Auburn: 0.36 inches
• Lakeport: 1.37 inches
• Modesto: 0.44 inches
• South Lake Tahoe: 0.58 inches

Power Outages

Power outages were also reported throughout the area, affecting nearly 788 customers in Nevada County due to fallen trees impacting power lines. Restoration is estimated to resume throughout the evening.

Conclusion

The Sierra region faces challenging winter weather conditions, leading to road closures, hazardous driving situations, and power outages. Residents and travelers are urged to stay informed about the latest updates and to exercise caution while traveling.

For more detailed information and real-time updates, visit Caltrans and check local weather forecasts on KCRA.

Stay safe and plan accordingly if you reside or are traveling in the affected areas.