Snow, Storms Show Their Effects

Traffic is flowing again on the I-5 Freeway between California to Oregon after the freeway was closed because of heavy snow.

Yesterday, a powerful winter storm shut down the major north-south route for nearly 150 miles stranding travelers. The northbound lanes were blocked for about 19 hours and the southbound side was closed for about 24 hours.

Police had to use snowmobiles to bring food, gas and water to motorists who were stuck in the snow. Crews are still working to tow away some of the abandoned cars and trucks.

Locally, yesterday´s wintry weather had crews helping motorists at Soulsbyville Road yesterday. Residents as low as the 2,500- foot level saw icy slush on the roadways… and anyone driving higher than that needed chains, snow tires, or four wheel drive. The weather also forced the cancellation of some high school basketball games between Gustine and Summerville High Schools… and may have contributed to a seaplane which overturned near Tuttle Town Boat Ramp at the New Melones Reservoir yesterday, as well.

Crews were helping motorists get the chains on their tires at Soulsbyville Road Monday evening.

Snow in the Mother Lode Monday morning meant chains were required on most Mother Lode highways.