FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — Heavy rain led to slick and flooded roadways across Central California on Wednesday.<\/p>\n
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) responding to multiple accidents throughout the day.<\/p>\n
“There has definitely been an uptick in the number of collisions due to the weather,” CHP Sgt. Joseph Bianchi said.<\/p>\n
Not all of Wednesday’s accidents were caused by the rain, but the wet weather can make roads more hazardous– leading to more crashes.<\/p>\n
“The collision factors remain the same; they’re just heightened when we have a wet roadway, less visibility, more people trying to get some place at the last minute for the holiday season. All of those factors make it a little bit more dangerous,” Sgt. Bianchi explained.<\/p>\n
Just before noon, a two-car crash along Highway 99 near Jensen caused this backup in southeast Fresno.<\/p>\n
The CHP says flooding may have been a factor, but luckily no one was injured.<\/p>\n
About 4 miles away, Caltrans closed the northbound 41 connector to the eastbound 180 for over three hours because of flooding.<\/p>\n
These water-filled roads are expected to be an issue through the end of the week as many are heading to and from their holiday plans.<\/p>\n
“If it looks dangerous and you don’t see other cars going through it, the old saying holds true: turn around, don’t drown,” AAA spokesperson, Doug Johnson said.<\/p>\n
AAA says the day after Christmas will be one of the busiest for travelers.<\/p>\n
“People that want to avoid traffic and congestion, especially with this atmospheric river coming in, really should leave their homes before 10am,” Johnson stated.<\/p>\n
If you have to drive this week, CHP and AAA advise you give yourself plenty of time, put away the distractions and stay focused on the road.<\/p>\n
Before heading out, CHP and AAA say you should check your tires; make sure the air pressure and traction are where they need to be.<\/p>\n
If you plan to drink this holiday, find a designated driver or use a rideshare service.<\/p>\n
For news and weather updates, follow Tiffany Olin on Facebook<\/a>, Twitter<\/a> and Instagram<\/a>.<\/p>\n Copyright \u00a9 2025 KFSN-TV. All Rights Reserved.<\/p>\n