BAKERSFIELD, Calif.(KBAK/KBFX) — A stormy start to the week brought hazardous driving conditions to parts of Kern County, including the Grapevine, where California Highway Patrol officers responded to several crashes.
CHP Fort Tejon Officer DC Williams said many of the crashes were caused by drivers going too fast for wet roads. “When you’re driving that fast and the roads are wet it increases your chances of hydroplaning,” Williams said.
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Drivers traveling through the Grapevine described difficult conditions. Shelly said, “We are definitely concerned that’s why we are trying to head back to Chino Hills as soon as we can.” Another driver said the commute through the area was challenging: “It’s pretty bad, flooding up the half of it.”
Strong weather impacting Grapevine, drivers urged to slow down as crashes begin (Photo: CHP Fort Tejon)
While Bakersfield saw a break in the rain, more wet weather is expected. Chief Meteorologist Ilya Neyman said the system will linger though Thursday, with the biggest concern Tuesday night into Wednesday. “That is when we’re gonna have the lowest snow levels that are gonna be dropping down below the pass level, pass levels at 4000 ft. The I-5, the Grapevine, Lebec, Gorman, Highway 58, the Tehachapi Pass,” Neyman said.
Williams said CHP’s focus during storms is keeping drivers safe, especially if ice begins forming on roadways. If conditions worsen, that could mean escorts or temporary closures. “As you’re going between North and Southern California, the majority of the cars aren’t going to have those winter tires, they’re going to have those high profile tires that do not do well in wet road conditions or in icy conditions,” Williams said.
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Drivers are urged to be prepared with an alternate route if closures happen, as shutdowns can last hours and, in some cases, up to a day. CHP said it does not anticipate a closure at this time but will continue monitoring conditions closely.
They advise drivers to slow down, plan ahead and if possible postpone their travel plans.