Extended stretch of early-season rain expected to keep driving conditions slick through early next week
FOLSOM, CA — After a serious injury accident on Highway 50 earlier this week, the Folsom Fire Department is reminding residents to use caution as early winter storms bring slick and hazardous road conditions to the region. The crash, which occurred during Monday’s commute, involved a single vehicle that struck the guardrail with enough force to trap the driver. Folsom firefighters responded quickly and performed an extrication to remove the occupant, who was then transported for medical care.
While the incident remains under investigation, Folsom Fire officials say the circumstances reflect a broader concern as the first significant rains of the season settle in. Roads are especially slick during the initial storms after long dry periods, and firefighters report seeing an uptick in weather-related calls this week. In a brief statement shared with Folsom Times, the department emphasized the importance of slowing down, staying alert, and preparing vehicles for wet conditions, noting, “Let this incident serve as a reminder to our drivers to slow down and use CAUTION as winter driving conditions have arrived in our area.”
The reminder comes as a prolonged stretch of wet, unsettled weather moves into the Folsom region. Starting today, November 13, multiple waves of rain are expected to pass through the area, bringing varying levels of intensity and keeping roads damp day and night. Today opens the pattern with widespread rainfall and periods of heavier showers, accompanied by temperatures in the low 60s and breezy south winds nearing 20 miles per hour. The rain is expected to ease late tonight before ramping back up over the weekend.
Friday offers a brief reprieve from the heavier rain, with light showers tapering early and clearing skies by evening. Cloud cover returns Saturday, with most of the day remaining dry until another round of evening showers moves in, signaling the start of another wet stretch. Sunday brings steady light rain and cooler temperatures in the mid-50s, and additional scattered showers are expected Monday before conditions slowly improve later in the day.
Altogether, the next several days will keep roadways consistently wet, visibility uneven, and driving conditions variable. Folsom Fire officials note that this type of early-season pattern—intermittent storms, frequently damp pavement, and changing wind conditions—often leads to spikes in collisions, particularly during commutes.
With more storms ahead, firefighters are urging drivers to adjust their habits now. Reducing speed, increasing following distance, and using headlights during any amount of rain can significantly improve safety. Officials also caution drivers to avoid abrupt braking or sharp turns, as both increase the likelihood of sliding on wet roads. Hydroplaning remains a concern during the first rounds of rain, and drivers should never attempt to pass through flooded areas, where even shallow moving water can push a vehicle off course. Keeping tires, wipers, lights, and defrosters in good working order is essential as this early winter weather continues.
As storms continue through the weekend, Folsom Fire hopes the community will take extra care on the roads to prevent more weather-related crashes and reduce the growing demand on emergency crews responding to seasonal incidents.
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