GRAPEVINE, Calif. (KNX) — California Highway Patrol on Wednesday announced the closure of both sides of the 5 Freeway in the Grapevine area. The shutdown was due to snow and ice brought by a winter storm bearing down on the Southern California region.
The pass was closed shortly after 6:30 a.m., according to CHP, after several crashes were reported in the vicinity. Authorities have warned drivers in the area to expect delays.
"The weather can change up here really quick," says CHP Officer D.C. Williams told ABC Los Angeles. "This is a unique area, so just be prepared for the unexpected."
"Make sure you are driving at a safe speed," Williams said. "Make sure you follow at a safe distance so if it's raining and it turns into snow, you can react. Make sure you have a kit with water, blanket, snacks, and patience because if things go bad, traffic can back up real quick."
Authorities had also closed State Route 58 over Tehachapi in both directions due to snowy and icy conditions.
