SoCal storm brings snow, tough driving conditions to mountains, passes
LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- A major storm made its way across Southern California on Monday, dumping snow in the mountain areas and prompting the California Highway Patrol to begin escorting traffic on the 5 Freeway through the Grapevine.
"With snow levels staying around 3,500 feet for most of the morning and more showers coming, it is best to avoid the (Tejon Pass) until later today," the National Weather Service said in a statement.
CHP escorts began shortly before 4 a.m. No lane closures were announced but the Highway Patrol said that may change if conditions warrant it.
The Angeles National Forest said roads in the forest might be very slick and/or closed due to rain or snow. Tire or snow chain requirements could be in effect.
The Weather Service had warned of a cold "atmospheric bowling ball'' that would produce a "strike'' of snow as it crosses through the Grapevine overnight into Monday morning.
The Cajon Pass remained open as the snow moved through, but traffic was slow and the CHP at times was escorting vehicles through the roads. Visibility was partially obscured by snow and fog. Caltrans was dropping cinders on the road to help with traction.
Hesperia resident Jessica Diaz decided to brave the conditions to prepare for possible road closures.
"It was windy and snowy and rainy," Diaz said.
"We're getting some stuff real quick before the roads get bad and it starts snowing and we can't get out, because we live on dirt roads."
The showers and isolated thunderstorms made their way east across the region, and the storm activity began weakening in most areas by late morning.
