The National Weather Service is predicting rain and snow in Southern California through Thursday, November 21. Several inches of snow are predicted for elevations at and above 6,000 feet, with heavy periods of rain up to two inches in some areas. Highway 62 is subject to flooding during heavy downpours or extended periods of rain. Rebecca Havely offers the following safety tips for driving in the predicted weather…
Caltrans maintenance crews are preparing state highways for the storm and have snow plows and other equipment ready. Avoid hydroplaning and steer clear of flooded highway lanes. Reduce your speed and leave plenty of room between you and the vehicle in front of you. Never try to drive through debris flows, flooded roads, or standing water.
Chains will be required in mountain areas. Mud and debris flows are always possible during heavy rainstorms. Mountain regions typically experience rock falls during and after storms.
Never try to drive through debris flows, flooded roads or standing water – Turn Around Don’t Drown. Do not drive past “Road Closed” signs and always follow commands and instructions from Caltrans personnel, CHP/law enforcement and emergency responders.
Winter driving tips can be found at:
http://dot.ca.gov/cttravel/winter.html
Chain control information can be found at:
http://dot.ca.gov/cttravel/chain-controls.html
Mud and debris flows are always possible during heavy rain events. Recent burn areas such as SR 38 through Forest Falls/Mountain Home Village (Valley Fire), SR’s 74 and SR 243 in Idyllwild and Mountain Center (Cranston Fire), and SR 74 and I-15 in Corona/Lake Elsinore (Holy Fire) are areas of concern. Evacuations and road closures may be possible on state and local highways due to flooding or debris flows. Mountain regions typically experience rock fall activity during and after storm events.
