Snowstorm Brings Fresh Snow, Chain Controls to NorCal Mountains

In the early-morning hours of the last day of 2020, a snowstorm hit the mountains of Northern California. From Mount Shasta down to Tahoe, the storm brought a decent dusting of snow throughout the mountains, forcing chain controls on major highways.

As of Thursday morning, chain controls remain in effect throughout the Sierra, causing delays on Interstate 80 and Highway 50 near Tahoe. Up north, chains are required on high elevation roads near Lassen Volcanic National Park, as well as Highway 89 near Mount Shasta. Here’s a map of current chain controls (as of 6 am Thursday):

This snowstorm wasn’t huge, but it’s a precursor to what looks to be 10 straight days of snowfall to begin 2021. With NorCal reservoir levels low following a dry 2020, a lot of precipitation is needed to reach normal levels during this water year. It’s also great for those skiers and snowboarders!

Here is some views of the snowy roads around NorCal on the morning of New Years Eve:

Highway 89 Near Snowman’s Hill

North Entrance of Lassen Volcanic National Park

Interstate 80 at Castle Peak

Highway 89 at Squaw Valley

Highway 50 at Myers

Highway 50 at Twin Bridges

Remember to check conditions before driving in high-elevation areas. Drive safe NorCal and have a Happy New Year!