Southern California snow: More than 130 drivers rescued, highways closed
RUNNING SPRINGS, Calif. -- Wintry weather moved into the Southland Tuesday night, bringing several inches of snow and prompting the rescue of more than 130 drivers, as well as the closures of two highways.
San Bernardino County fire officials said crews had to use snowcats around 10:30 p.m. to rescue trapped drivers along Highway 138 at Old Mill Road near Crestline.
The heavy snowfall created dangerous driving conditions and forced the closure of Ortega Highway between Riverside and Orange counties. It was unknown when the road would reopen, authorities said.
At one point, both sides of the 15 Freeway were closed because of the snow, but Caltrans said the lanes reopened just before 5 a.m. and drivers were escorted between Bundy Canyon and Clinton Keith roads.
Motorists traveling along the Grapevine on Interstate-5 had to navigate through a steady snowfall and fog, but conditions didn't get bad enough to force a closure there.
"We will have units available to respond to the Grapevine, but in conjunction with Caltrans, the highway patrol will be making the decision with Caltrans whether or not they have to shut the roadway down based upon whether or not the roadway is treacherous, whether or not the weather conditions dictate so," said CHP Officer John Lutz.
Caltrans has crews standing by to jump into action if roads close.
"If there is snow or ice on the roadway our crews along with their plows will go side-by-side in three, and they'll distribute sand, cinders and ice slicer which is kind of like salt but not corrosive to make the salt melt away," said Patrick Chandler with Caltrans.
Drivers heading up to the mountain resorts are advised to bring chains and prepare for road closures.
VIDEO: Grapevine still open despite snow
Rain began falling along the 215 Freeway in San Bernardino Tuesday afternoon. For those heading out of town for the big holiday weekend, it was a race to stay ahead of the weather. Able Garcia and his family were headed to Las Vegas, prepared for the cold.
"As a matter of fact we have ski gear, we have snow gear in our car because we might go to the snow up there," Garcia said.
Meantime, Caltrans crews in the Cajon Pass are also concerned about icy conditions.
"As soon as we see white stick to the ground, our plows go out," said Shelli Lombardo with Caltrans. "We do everything we possibly can to keep the I-15 open."
The CHP and Caltrans are asking motorists driving in the Cajon Pass and the Grapevine to take it easy.
