Wintry Storm Slams Coachella Valley And High Desert
PALM DESERT- A major winter storm spent Monday dumping rain in the low desert and snow in the high desert, creating treacherous traffic conditions for a lot of drivers.
A tractor-trailer overturned on Interstate 10 right as the evening rush started, bringing traffic down to one lane on the eastbound side. In La Quinta and Cathedral City, major arteries were shut down at the washes due to high water.
High winds are going to be the big problem as the evening progresses. Wind gusts of up to 60 mph could hit some areas of Riverside County, according to the National Weather Service. News Channel 3 Meteorologist Ginger Jeffries says wind gusts are going to give way to sub-freezing conditions for the desert.
And it’s not just traffic. Hillsides that were scorched by the summer wildfires are now getting their first big dose of saturation. Roughly one-third of the 676,666-acre San Bernardino National Forest stretches across Riverside County.
Visitors should be prepared for hazardous road conditions, including slick and snow-covered roads, by carrying tire chains, he said.
They should also dress warmly and carry extra food and water in case of delays or trouble, he said.
“While in the mountains, be aware of your surroundings and be prepared for a sudden change in conditions because weather can change rapidly and unexpectedly,” he said.
Visitors can take advantage of a variety of activities in the mountains, including hiking, birding, snow play and sledding, but they should always be aware of their surroundings and choose safe places for their activities, he said.
Should they choose to toboggan or sled, they should make sure they are far enough away from large rocks, trees and cliffs, he said.
Finally, forest rangers ask that visitors purchase and display the required Forest Adventure Pass on their parked vehicles at all times. A list of designated fee sites and parking areas is online at www.fs.fed.us/r5/sanbernardino/ap/.
The California Department of Transportation provides current road condition information to those who call (800) 427-7623, he said.
Road closures are posted online at www.dot.ca.gov/cgi-bin, and general information about the forest is online at www.fs.fed.us/r5/sanbernardino.
