January 4, 2023 - STOCKTON – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) strongly recommends motorists avoid travel as much as possible until this week’s atmospheric river weather event subsides.

The National Weather Service forecasts today into early next week:

• Damaging winds likely causing widespread downed trees and long-duration power outages.

• Difficult, if not impossible driving conditions, especially for high-profile vehicles.

• Moderate to heavy rain on already saturated soils which could lead to areas of rapidly developing roadway and urban flooding on rivers, streams, and creeks.

• Localized rockslides in the foothills due to heavy rainfall.

• Snow levels beginning at approximately 4,500-5,000 feet today and this weekend.

R2 chain requirements currently are in place in the Sierra in District 10 on State Routes 4, 88, 89, and 108, and likely will remain in place into next week. Road closures due to snow and flooding already are in effect in some areas and more closures are likely.

If you must travel, be prepared for winter driving conditions. In the mountains, always have chains, winterize your vehicle, and pack an emergency kit. Stay back and give our plows room to work safely. In wet weather, reduce speed and follow at a safe distance, inspect wipers and replace if needed, don’t use cruise control, check headlights, inflate tires to the correct pressures and check tread, and heed flood warnings and road closures.

More tips and information are available here: dot.ca.gov/travel.

Check Caltrans for road conditions: quickmap.dot.ca.gov or 1-800-427-7623.
Source: Caltrans