Snow fell in northern sections of Los Angeles County on Friday, causing the closure of northbound Interstate 5 near the Templin Highway. State officials implemented “Operation Snow Flake,” in which the California Department of Transportation workers and California Highway Patrol officers escorted motorists through dangerous traffic spots at first, before eventually closing parts of I-5, near the Templin Highway, said CHP Officer Michelle Esposito. “If you don’t have to drive in it, stay home,” Esposito said. CHP and Caltrans officials, who work together in serious weather conditions, have been preparing for the expected snow, which is expected to reach the 2,500 foot level, as well as hail and a chance of thunderstorms. Dozens of Caltrans crews have mobilized to deal with whatever Mother Nature has to throw at them, said Caltrans spokeswoman Jeanne Bonfilio. “Our crews have been out there since weather predictions started earlier this week,” Bonfilio said. Every year, just before the winter season, CHP and Caltrans officials meet to determine their plans of action, in the event of poor weather conditions. Snow usually hits along I-5, on the way to Bakersfield, Bonfilio said. Caltrans employees are on hand with snow plows. CHP officers direct traffic when weather deems the road unsafe to drive.

 

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