SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Commuters in Northern California can expect a challenging start to the week with significant traffic delays and weather-related issues on Monday morning. The region experienced heavy rain overnight, leading to the implementation of chain controls in the Sierra due to ongoing snowfall and reports of crashes causing traffic troubles in areas like Sacramento and Modesto. The California Highway Patrol in Modesto is advising drivers to steer clear of southbound Highway 99, citing flooding on the roadway just north of Tuolumne Boulevard, as well as a big rig crash at Kansas Avenue.
Meanwhile, cleanup efforts are underway to address a fuel spill caused by a jackknifed big rig on southbound I-5 at J Street, further contributing to delays in the area. Some areas, such as Sutter, Yuba, and San Joaquin counties, received the heaviest rain, resulting in variable rainfall amounts across the region. A flood advisory is in place for portions of the San Joaquin Valley and Northern Sacramento Valley, warning of the potential for standing water in low-lying and poor drainage areas due to moderate to heavy rain through sunrise.
Throughout the morning, the rain is expected to become more sporadic in the Valley, with the possibility of lingering showers into the afternoon. Snowfall in the Sierra on Monday morning is anticipated to be most significant at elevations above 6,000 feet but is expected to taper off in intensity by late morning. The weather forecast for Tuesday includes dry conditions with morning fog, while Wednesday may bring the return of light showers and the potential for additional snowfall in the Sierra.
As part of their continued weather coverage, local news outlets have been providing live updates on traffic and weather conditions, serving as a valuable resource for residents navigating the impacts of the storm.
It’s essential for commuters to stay informed and take necessary precautions when traveling in challenging weather conditions. Keeping abreast of the latest developments and utilizing real-time traffic maps can aid in planning travel routes and avoiding areas affected by accidents, flooding, or other weather-related incidents.