Interstate 80 Closes Over Donner Summit at Blizzard Slams the Sierra
A powerful Sierra storm is bringing travel to a standstill Tuesday morning.
According to Caltrans, westbound I-80 is closed at the Nevada state line, while eastbound lanes are shut down at Applegate following multiple spinouts near Donner Summit. Heavy snowfall and slick conditions have made travel unsafe across the higher elevations.
Forecasters are calling for feet of snow in the Sierra through Wednesday, with snowfall intensity easing late Tuesday night before transitioning to scattered showers. Snow levels are fluctuating, creating a messy mix of rain and snow in lower elevations while higher terrain continues to pile up fresh accumulation.
Drivers heading toward Lake Tahoe or attempting to cross the Sierra should expect widespread impacts. Chain controls are currently active on major routes in and out of the Tahoe Basin, including stretches of US-50, Highway 89, Highway 88, Highway 267, SR 207, and SR 28.
Conditions may not improve much this week. Another fast-moving system is already lining up for Thursday, potentially delivering more snow at nearly all elevations.
If you don’t need to be on the road, officials strongly recommend postponing travel until the storm cycle passes. Always check real-time road conditions before heading into the mountains.
