There’s finally some good news for holiday travelers who have been unable to drive on some of Southern California’s most crucial freeways.
Officials were forced to close the Grapevine portion of the 5 Freeway since a Christmas Day storm dropped several inches of snow on the roadway, cutting the main connector between Southern California and the Central Valley.
The freeway has finally reopened after being closed from Parker Road in Castaic to Grapevine Road in Kern County, Caltrans said.
Drivers will initially be escorted by California Highway Patrol vehicles.
Snow conditions also forced officials to keep the 15 Freeway closed between Baker and Primm, Nevada, for much of Friday morning.
Caltrans announced the roadway had reopened in both directions just after 9 a.m.
The Cajon Pass portion of the freeway, which was also temporarily closed, was reopened on Thursday. That closure had caused miles-long backups, and drivers were stuck on the freeway for hours.
The 138 Freeway has reopened after being closed in both directions between the 15 Freeway and Angeles Crest Highway. Some 3 feet of snow fell in the Wrightwood area during this week’s storm, dumping on ski resort Mountain High.
Angeles Crest Highway to Islip Saddle and State Route 33 north of Ojai both reopened shortly after noon. Those roadways has also been shut down due to snow and ice.
Weather conditions have improved Friday, with sunny skies over most of the Southland.
Drivers should be aware that chains are still required for all mountain roads heading to the Big Bear area. Updated road conditions and chain requirements can be found here.
Comments