Christmas storm could make driving conditions dangerous on Grapevine

GORMAN, Calif. (KABC) -- A winter storm is expected to hit parts of Southern California on Christmas Eve, which could make driving treacherous over the Grapevine.

The California Highway Patrol and Caltrans are prepared to shut down the Interstate 5 Freeway from Castaic to Fort Tejon if the 40-mile stretch of road gets too dangerous. Driving conditions could get scary with ice, snow and strong winds as well as drivers experiencing low visibility.

The storm was expected to move across the region, bringing snow and rain to areas as low as 3,500 feet overnight. Blustery winds between 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 45 mph could also cause light snow clouds to reduce visibility.

Caltrans cars sprinkled sand along the roads to help with traction as snow began to fall. In Frazier Park, folks will wake up to a white Christmas.

The CHP and Caltrans warn early morning drivers heading out on the Grapevine to check traffic conditions before heading out in case roads may be closed.