Community Corner

Sledding! Snow and Icy Roadways Expected in East and North County

Between 2 and 4 inches of snow could accumulate at altitudes greater than 3,500 feet, and up to 8 inches could fall in areas above 5,000 feet. Even more snow may fall at Mt. Laguna and peaks around 7,000 feet, according to the NWS.

A winter storm was expected to bring gusty wind and significant amounts of snow to parts of San Diego County's mountains starting Saturday, meteorologists said.

Snow and icy roads were predicted for Interstate 8 between Alpine and Jacumba, and the National Weather Service suggested emergency travel only towards El Centro. The NWS scheduled a winter storm warning from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., for mountain areas of East and North County.

North of Los Angeles, snow closed both the Tejon and Tehachapi passes, leaving only U.S. 101 through Ventura and Salinas open for road travel between San Diego and Northern California.

Find out what's happening in Carlsbadwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Snow was expected to begin falling in East County and North County mountain areas this morning, and will grow heavier this afternoon, NWS forecasters said. Precipitation was expected to decrease from north to south tonight.

Between 2 and 4 inches of snow could accumulate at altitudes greater than 3,500 feet, and up to 8 inches could fall in areas above 5,000 feet. Even more snow may fall at Mt. Laguna and peaks around 7,000 feet, according to the NWS.

Find out what's happening in Carlsbadwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Interstate 8 has three summits above the 4,000-foot level in East County, and the freeway towards Arizona is frequently restricted to chains and 25 mile-per-hour traffic, or closed, in such weather.

In addition to the snow, areas of west winds between 20-30 mph, with gusts of up to 50 mph are possible, forecasters said. Blowing snow and fog could reduce motorists' visibility.

The NWS advised mountain residents and travelers to be prepared for hazardous winter weather and possible road closures, and to carry tire chains, extra food and water, clothing and a flashlight, if possible.

"Significant amounts of snow are forecast that will make travel dangerous," the winter storm warning stated. "Only travel through the mountains in case of an emergency."

Strong gusty winds of 20-30 mph with gusts of up to 50 mph are also expected in the deserts, according to the NWS. A high wind warning is in effect for desert areas through 4 a.m. Sunday.

The desert winds could also impact drivers, especially those with high- profile vehicles, and could blow debris and broken tree limbs into the roadway, forecasters said.

Rain showers were expected along the coast and in the valleys today, according to the NWS.

—City News Service


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