Major Winter Storm Expected to Impact Mountain Travel

The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) is alerting motorists about a major winter storm in the Sacramento Valley and the Sierra Nevada that forecasters say will create near impossible travel conditions for the end of the week and beginning of March.

Early forecast estimates from the National Weather Service show the potential for a total of 5 to 12 feet of snow above 5,000 feet and 1 to 4 feet of snow as low as 3,000 feet starting this Thursday through Sunday, March 3. Winds are also expected to gust up to 60 mph. A Winter Storm Watch is in effect from 4:00 a.m. Thursday to 10:00 a.m. Sunday.

Motorists should avoid mountain travel if possible. If motorists must travel, Caltrans advises to pack extra supplies in the event of an emergency or if traffic is held for an extended period of time. Those supplies should include extra snacks, water, a blanket, and a flashlight. Motorists should also be prepared for road closures, chain controls, excessive delays, and reduced visibility.

In the Sacramento Valley, rain amounts are forecast between 1 and 1.5 inches. The highest amounts are anticipated near Redding and into the foothills. Motorists should be prepared for slick travel conditions, a longer than normal commute and ponding on the roadways. 

What’s happening on Interstate 5 RIGHT NOW! I-5 Real-time traffic information for selected cities along I-5. Maps show updates on road construction, traffic accidents, travel delays and the latest traffic speeds. Traffic cameras show congestion at a glance. Visit I-5 Traffic.

The I-5 Exit Guide is the Internet’s largest and most complete website dedicated to Interstate 5 travelers. Find detailed exit service listings… lodging, camping, food, gas and more for every exit from Washington to California!

On the road? Why not take us with you. The I-5 Exit Guide is mobile-friendly and totally FREE. No App Required.

Traveling another route? Visit our growing family of exit guides:  I-4 Exit Guide, I-5 Exit Guide, I-10 Exit Guide, I-75 Exit Guide, I-80 Exit Guide and I-95 Exit Guide. Detailed exit service listings… discount lodging, camping, food, gas and more for every exit along the way!