As a winter storm arrived in Southern California Thursday, mountain communities were hit with heavy snowfall, creating dangerous driving conditions.
Travelers making their way through San Bernardino County and the Grapevine are advised to take extreme caution as limited visibility due to heavy rainfall, snow and gusty winds impact the area.
A snow advisory was issued by the California Highway Patrol for the Tejon Pass on the 5 Freeway. CHP reported several crashes on both the north and southbound lanes. All drivers are asked to follow CHP escorts to safely pass through the area on Thursday night.
The National Weather Service issued a winter storm warning for San Bernardino County mountain communities including Big Bear, Wrightwood, Running Springs, Lake Arrowhead and Crestline.
Snow levels are expected to drop as low as 3,000 feet by early Friday morning while strong winds and slippery road conditions will persist.
“Even though it’s still fresh, it’s very dangerous,” said Miguel Delgadillo, a truck driver traveling on the Grapevine.
Despite the difficult driving conditions, locals were happy to see the snow and many visitors made their way up the mountains to enjoy a day of fresh powder on the slopes.
“It was a nice day today,” said Juan Rodriguez, a snowboarder at Mt. High in Wrightwood. “I saw the weather. Yesterday it rained. We got some fresh snow and I was like, ‘Man, I can’t miss this opportunity!’”
“We had a slow winter,” said Greg Tirheimer Jr., a mechanic/groomer at Snowdrift Snow Tubing Park. “How exciting is it that we finally have lots of snow and people can come out here? It’s really exciting. We’ve been waiting for this all year.”
Hazardous driving conditions could impact Friday morning’s commute. Those who must travel to snow-affected areas are advised to keep an extra flashlight, food and water in their vehicle in case of an emergency.
“Due to heavy snowfall stuck to the roadway, CHP Fort Tejon units are conducting escorts/pacing,” CHP said Thursday night. “Follow behind the patrol units and traffic at a safe distance. Do not try to work through traffic, as this could lead to a crash and further delays.”
Residents across the Southland are expected to get a break from the winter weather this weekend before more wet weather is expected to arrive next Monday and Wednesday.