I-80 between Colfax and Nevada reopens following snowstorm, multiple closures
Northern California storms brought heaps of snow to the Sierra Nevada early Sunday morning, forcing an overnight closure of Interstate 80 in the mountains followed by another closure in the morning.
Caltrans said traffic was being held in both directions over the highway just before 10 p.m. Saturday as the storm bore down on Donner Summit.
Traffic reopened after 8 a.m., but low visibility conditions forced another closure just after 10:30 a.m.
At about 3 p.m., Caltrans announced that both directions had reopened, following improved visibility and efforts by crews to clear roadways, but still advised against travel in the Sierras. The Placer County Sheriff’s Office stated that chains were being required from Colfax to Truckee.
The closure spanned from Colfax to the Nevada state line, according to Caltrans.
The National Weather Service was forecasting moderate to severe snow in the Sierra Nevada and rainstorms in the valley lasting Sunday into Monday.
Thunderstorms were predicted throughout Northern California, accompanied by small hail and gusty winds.
Sacramento could see as much as two inches of rain by Monday, while Donner Pass could see up to three feet of snow.
The weather service said the storm will have major impact on local travel and may result in delays and dangerous conditions such as slick roads and whiteouts at high elevations.
The Placer County Sheriff’s Office advised travelers to think twice about coming up to the Sierra Nevada.
“Make sure you check conditions & resort operations before visiting us,” the agency said on Twitter.
