[view:node_ad=5] NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE ISSUES SEVERE STORM WARNING

Rain, snow, high winds expected; flash flooding possible.

UPDATE: MONDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2009 – 6:22 pm:
 
As of 6:22 pm, Northbound and Southbound I-5 at the Grapevine is open. Travel is not recommended for
high-profile vehicles and those pulling trailers due to continued high
winds.

Heavy snow had forced authorities to shut down the Interstate 5 Freeway through the Grapevine. The snow level has dropped to 3,500 feet. High winds, with gusts up to 75 miles per hour are projected.

[view:node_ad=5]Detours:

If you need to travel north, you can use the 14 freeway to access highway 395. Snowfall is expected on some parts of the 14, but the roadway is open at this time.

Another detour would involve using the 14 freeway and highway 58 to reach highway 99. High wind gusts and potential snowfall are expected on this route, however all three highways are open at this time.

A powerful Pacific storm moved into the area around midnight Sunday, producing a multitude of weather hazards including southeast winds gusting to between 60 and 75 MPH, intense rainfall capable of producing flash flooding, thunderstorms with strong wind gusts and dangerous lightning and heavy snowfall in the mountains with visibilities near zero.

There is a flash flood watch in effect from 10 p.m,. Sunday through Monday afternoon. Rainfall amounts of one to three inches are expected through Monday.

There is also a threat of flash flooding and debris flows for the recent burns areas, including the Buckweed, Magic, Sesnon, Sayre and Marek fires.

The strong and cold storm system is expected to bring rain, snow and treacherous driving conditions to Los Angeles County. Snow levels remained about about 4,500 to 5,000 feet Sunday, but colder air moving through the region will drop the snow level between 3,500 to 4,000 feet Monday night, bringing anywhere from 1 to 3 feet of new snow to local mountains.

Refresh hometownstation.com frequently for the most current weather conditions.