Southern California bracing for heavy rain

FONTANA, Calif. (KABC) -- The highways leading to the San Bernardino Mountains are clear and dry now, but the signs warning drivers of icy roads and to carry chains will be more relevant come Friday.

With snow in the forecast, Caltrans crews are ready to keep the roads to Big Bear open. Drivers may be tempted to pass the slow-moving snow plows, but Caltrans says it's safer to stay behind the plows.

"Pack of vehicles behind the plow, the friction on the road of say six or seven, 10, 15 cars together actually warms the pavement, then there's no way for the snow or the ice to settle on the pavement," said Caltrans public information officer Shelli Lombardo.

Lombardo says Caltrans is also prepared to call in extra personnel in the Cajon Pass.

"If needed, we can call in 11 employees in addition to run two 12 hour shifts out of the maintenance yard," Lombardo said.

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In Glendora, Los Angeles County Public Works crews began hauling away massive amounts of mud and rocks from a main basin Tuesday. They want to make sure the forecasted rain can flow through. Mudslides and debris flows are a major concern in the Colby Fire burn area.

"We get the debris material out of the basins to make sure that we've got maximum capacity depending on what kind of storms might come our way," said Bob Spencer with L.A. County Public Works.

The storm heading to Southern California will bring much needed rain. For many drivers, the rain will make for a soggy commute, moving at a snail's pace.

Caltrans reminds drivers to always carry chains when driving up to the mountains. Kitty litter can also help improve traction in ice and snow.