Grapevine could be shut down if snow conditions worsen

GORMAN, Calif. (KABC) -- The 5 Freeway through the grapevine could be impacted with snow possibly over the weekend, and if conditions get bad enough it may be shut down.

Snowfall was expected at elevations around 4,000 feet.

"It's a 40-mile distance between here the other side of the grapevine and there are actually no services between here and there. We don't want people getting stuck and being without services and being without help," California Highway Patrol Officer Eric Priessman said.

It's known as Operation Snowflake, and if it goes into effect it will put even more strain on local freeways because the 101 is already shut down in Montecito because of the mudslide.

"The highway patrol's advice to everybody is that if the weather does get bad and Snowflake is in effect, if you don't have to travel north then please stay home," Priessman said. "It keeps the roads less congested. It keeps you from getting into any trouble."

Dana McQuarrie found himself in some trouble and nearly out of gas as he made his way around the 101 Freeway detour. He said snowy conditions caused him to stay between Ventura and the Buellton area in northern Santa Barbara County.

"We're going to stay at my boss's property until the roads open and try to get in front of the snow," he said.

The snow can be quite a shock for those looking for some of that warm Southern California weather.