Stockton, CA…The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) strongly recommends motorists avoid travel as much as possible until an incoming atmospheric river weather event subsides.

The National Weather Service forecasts over the next 5-7 days:
• Lingering mountain/foothill snow showers today.
• A warmer wet weather system Thursday afternoon into early next week with higher snow levels, widespread valley/foothill rain, and high elevation snow.
• 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.
• Damaging winds likely causing widespread downed trees and long-duration power outages.
• Difficult, if not impossible driving conditions, especially for high-profile vehicles.
• Localized rockslides in the foothills due to heavy rainfall.

R2 chain requirements currently are in place in the Sierra in District 10, and likely will remain in place into next week. Road closures due to snow, flooding and rockslides in some areas are possible. 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 and first responders 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, 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.
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