Chain controls remain in effect on I-80, Highway 50 in Sierra as Northern California storm begins to ease

By Cecilio Padilla

Roads have been a mess across Northern California as a storm moved through the region on Christmas.

The main front of the system started passing through the region very early Wednesday morning, while another wave began early Thursday.

Areas with poor drainage and backed-up storm drains saw some localized flooding across the Sacramento Valley. 

Chain controls have been in effect on both Highway 50 and Interstate 80 in the Sierra since Wednesday and remain up as of Friday morning. Drivers were urged to avoid traveling up the mountain for the time being. Travel on 80 was also closed to all semi-trucks and trailers for the time being between Applegate and the Nevada state line.

Traffic on I-80 over the Donner Summit was held multiple times throughout the week due to spinouts and crashes.

Highway 267 near Northstar Resort was closed for a time on Friday due to spinouts.

So far this week, the Sierra has seen 4-8 feet of snow, while the valley and lower foothills have picked up 1.5-5 inches of rain. Another round of showers, thunderstorms and snow was expected Friday before a dry weekend. 

“If you’re going to travel this way, please head with caution,” said CHP Officer Chris Patton.

Despite the warnings, many drivers continue through the Sierra as holiday travel peaks. Some were headed to nearby destinations like Reno and Truckee, while others were making their way to ski resorts.

As the snow fell, drivers described a mix of frustration and holiday spirit.

“It’s coming down, it’s Christmas, a little wonderland going on,” said one traveler headed to Reno.

However, the storm has also created unexpected challenges. One driver traveling to Truckee said charging issues with their electric vehicle forced them to reconsider their plans mid-drive.

“When I left Auburn, Tesla said I could charge in Cisco or get up to Truckee,” the driver said. “As I was coming here, it said my destination is no longer operable.”

A winter storm warning is in effect until 10 p.m. Friday with heavy snow expected above 4,500 feet and wind gusts up to 60 mph.

“Make sure you know what’s going to be happening when you come up here,” Officer Patton said. “Long wait times. You’re probably going to be in extreme weather conditions.”