In addition to the wet weather, strong winds have created hazardous travel conditions, particularly for those attempting to navigate mountain roads.
SODA SPRINGS, Calif. — A powerful winter storm is continuing to impact the Sierra Nevada region, bringing challenging travel conditions and significant power outages. The storm, one of the coldest this year, has delivered a mix of snow, rain, and strong winds, causing disruptions across the area.
Earlier in the day, heavy snowfall blanketed the Sierra, followed by rain and gusty winds that made conditions hazardous for both skiers and drivers. On the slopes, snowboarders and skiers were forced to contend with rain mixed with strong winds, turning what was supposed to be a pleasant outing into an uncomfortable experience.
“It hurts the face, it hurts everything. You are all wet,” said skier Brandon Wojciak.
“The sleet is not really helping. Some bullets to the face,” added Drew Degnan, another skier on the slopes.
Eli Fink, also on the slopes, voiced frustration with the conditions: “I wished it was actual flakes than whatever this is.”
The storm continued to evolve as the day progressed, bringing multiple layers of weather, including rain that replaced the snow by evening. While the snow initially created challenging driving conditions, the rain did little to alleviate travel difficulties.
In addition to the wet weather, strong winds have created hazardous travel conditions, particularly for those attempting to navigate mountain roads. At the Kingvale Shell gas station, a brief power outage occurred when the storm hit, lasting about 15 seconds before power was restored.
The weather also forced chain controls to be enacted on certain roads as snow accumulated.
Ethan Bowles, a chain installer, advised drivers to slow down in the treacherous conditions.
“People need to get where they are going. Just have to take your time. You cannot go fast in weather like this, otherwise you end up crashing. That is why the highway was closed yesterday (Wednesday) morning,” Bowles explained.
As the storm moves forward, Caltrans officials are advising drivers to exercise caution, especially in areas where strong winds are expected to persist.
“High winds are definitely going to impact travel,” said John O’Connell, a representative from Caltrans District 3.
For those planning to travel in the coming days, O’Connell reassured that roads should be cleared in time for the next wave of travelers.
Caltrans says roadways in the Sierra should be clear Friday afternoon for travel.
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