A winter storm warning is in effect. Susanville is receiving more snow than expected for this first half of the day, Thursday December 23 . Snow plows are having a tough time keeping up with the amount we are receiving. There have been several spinouts, cars going off the side of the roads, and accidents already. If you do not have to be out driving it is best to stay home. Weather conditions will continue to deteriorate for your travel plans and are expected to get worse as we get closer to Christmas. The storm warning does remain in place through Sunday yet snow is likely through to next Tuesday. Snow elevations drop drastically each day. By Sunday snow levels will be at 1000 to 2000 feet in elevation. The region can expect a few feet of snow. High winds are expected as well with this storm, up to 45 miles an hour at times, when snowing this can cause whiteout conditions.
If you are planning to travel to family and friends by Christmas, there will be a break in the heavier snowfall for your travel plans. Starting late today and into the early part of Christmas Eve the Reno National Weather service is expecting a better travel window. Plan ahead and make sure you have chains as you travel over those passes.
Additionally with highway 70 closed at the greenville wye down to Jarbo gap due to the slide in the Feather River Canyon traffic has rerouted through hwy 32 into the area which can be rough travel with inclamate weather. The roadway through that canyon remains icy with little sunlight reaching the roads. Be aware large trucks are also using 32 as an alternative route.
If you need to travel the hwy use caution and slow down through the area. Susanville CHP has been handling many snarls and spinouts during this weather.
