Residents at higher elevations and in the foothills woke up to a blanket of snow Saturday morning and for some it was a deep blanket as a series of winter storms that moved into the area late Thursday lived up to their expectations, dumping copious amounts of snow in the Sierra.
The storm that has brought blizzard like conditions to the mountains has limited travel over the passes. As of 8 a.m. Saturday morning, Interstate 80 remained completely closed at Colfax to all traffic due to numerous spinouts and hazardous conditions at the higher elevations.
On Highway 50, chains are required on all vehicles except 4-wheel-drive vehicles with snow tires on all 4 wheels from 9 mi east of Placerville to Meyers. Eastbound trucks are being screened at Twin Bridges, Drivers must have maximum chains in their possession in order to proceed – Permit loads are prohibited. Westbound trucks are being screened at Meyers. Drivers must have maximum chains in their possession in order to proceed.
Sierra at Tahoe announced Saturday morning it would remain closed for the day due to heavy snow, high winds and zero visibility. The resort was expected to make a further announcement on its Sunday operations later in the day. Heavenly Ski Resort reported that all lifts remained closed Saturday morning as well as the gondola due heavy winds. On the north side of the mountain, Palisades Tahoe also remained closed Saturday, reporting up to 100 mile wind gusts in the area.
As of Saturday morning, early estimates from the Sacramento office of the National Weather Service are estimating an accumulation of up to 10 feet in some areas above 5,000 feet and 3-4 feet in areas above 5,000 feet.
As snow continues to fall in the Sierra this morning, the Sacramento Valley is receiving a reprieve from the rains, however, showers are expected to return this afternoon. A high wind advisory is in effect from the Solano/Yolo County line to the Yolo/Sacramento County line, and travel is not recommended for campers, trailers, or permit loads.
For updated highway conditions, travelers are urged to check the Caltrans Highway Conditions website HERE. You can also call 1-800-427-7623 for current highway conditions.
This is a developing story, updates will follow this report throughout the day.
