Drivers Stranded after Snow Storm on Highway 18
Winter Weather Causes Chaos on Mountain Highways
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported receiving several calls from drivers who got stuck in the snow on Highway 18 on Thursday night. The situation was severe, with some drivers having no option but to abandon their vehicles on the road due to the challenging conditions.
Cars Stranded Along the Highway
Several cars were seen stranded along the highway, covered in snow, and remained there Friday morning. The CHP estimates that around 18 cars were left behind, leaving drivers to seek assistance from authorities.
Official Response
Officials were at the scene, helping ensure that drivers had the correct tires or chains and were equipped to navigate the treacherous conditions. The conditions had calmed down somewhat by Friday morning, but visibility was still very low in the early hours of the day.
Weather Warning
A winter storm warning was in effect for some mountain communities, with forecasters predicting as much as a foot of snow above 6,000 feet, and up to 15 inches above 7,000 feet. Lower-lying areas could expect around 6 inches of snow, with winds gusting up to 50 mph.
Less-Severe Weather Advisory
A less-severe winter weather advisory was in effect for other areas, but the conditions on Highway 18 remained hazardous.
Conclusion
The snowstorm on Highway 18 left many drivers stranded, with some forced to abandon their vehicles. The California Highway Patrol and other officials worked to ensure the safety of those affected, but the situation was a stark reminder of the dangers of winter weather on mountain highways.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many cars were left stranded on Highway 18?
A: Approximately 18 cars were left behind.
Q: What was the cause of the stranding?
A: The snowstorm that hit the area, with some drivers unable to navigate the treacherous conditions.
Q: How did authorities respond to the situation?
A: Officials were at the scene, helping drivers with proper tires or chains and ensuring they were equipped to navigate the conditions.
Q: What was the forecast for the area?
A: A winter storm warning was in effect for some mountain communities, with severe weather conditions expected.
