Travel through the Sierra Nevada, particularly on Interstate 80 (I-80), has been severely impacted by a series of winter storms.Chain controls are currently in effect, and multiple spinouts have caused significant delays for travelers in the region.
Sources:
rgj.comkcra.comAs of Wednesday afternoon, chain controls were mandated on I-80 from Nyack in Placer County to the Nevada state line.All vehicles, except for four-wheel-drive vehicles equipped with snow tires on all four wheels, are required to use chains.
Sources:
rgj.comroads.dot.ca.govCommercial vehicles, specifically tractor-trailer combinations, are prohibited from traveling on I-80 between Applegate and the Nevada state line due to hazardous conditions caused by spinouts.
Sources:
rgj.comroads.dot.ca.govThe National Weather Service has warned that heavy snowfall is expected to continue, with snow levels dropping to around 5,000 to 6,000 feet.This means that even lower elevations, including the Tahoe Basin, could experience significant snowfall.
Source:
mynews4.comForecasters predict that snowfall rates could reach 1 to 2 inches per hour during peak periods, leading to further travel complications.
Source:
rgj.comTravelers have reported that conditions on I-80 have been treacherous, with some experiencing delays of up to two hours for just a few miles of travel.The speed limit has been reduced to 30 mph in chain control areas, which has contributed to the slow movement of traffic.
Sources:
kcra.commagnifeye.comIn addition to I-80, other routes in the Sierra are also under chain control.For instance, chains are required on State Route 431 (Mt.Rose Highway) and US-50, with similar restrictions in place for several other highways in the area.
Sources:
rgj.comkcra.comCaltrans has advised drivers to check for real-time updates on chain control locations and road conditions, as they are working to improve the consistency of information provided through mapping services.
Sources:
roads.dot.ca.govmagnifeye.comThe situation is expected to improve over the weekend as drier, colder weather is forecasted to move into the region.However, until then, travelers are urged to exercise caution and consider alternate routes if possible.
Sources:
rgj.commynews4.comIn summary, the combination of chain controls and spinouts has created challenging travel conditions on I-80 and other Sierra passes.With heavy snowfall continuing, drivers should remain vigilant and prepared for delays as they navigate these winter weather challenges.
