Northern California Storm Coverage: Avalanches, Highway Closures, and Power Outages

Avalanche Warning:: The Sierra Avalanche Center issued an avalanche warning for areas including Truckee, Lake Tahoe, and regions south of the lake, effective through 4 a.m. Wednesday. This is due to the heavy snowfall and unstable snowpack.

Highway Closures:: Several major highways, including Interstate 80 and Highway 50, have been subject to closures and chain control restrictions due to spinouts and hazardous conditions. As of Tuesday afternoon, closures and chain controls remain in effect. For the latest updates, refer to Caltrans.

Power Outages:: Thousands of Pacific Gas & Electric Co. (PG&E) customers in Nevada and Calaveras Counties have experienced power outages due to the storm. PG&E is working to restore power, but estimated restoration times vary. Check PG&E's outage map for the latest information.

Missing Skiers:: A group of 16 backcountry skiers was caught in an avalanche near Castle Peak. Ten are currently missing, and six are awaiting rescue. Search and rescue efforts are underway, but backcountry travel is strongly discouraged due to the dangerous conditions.

Interstate 80: Closed from Colfax to the Nevada state line. Chains required from 3.4 miles east of Gold Run to the Nevada state line.

Highway 50: Closed from Pointview Drive in Placerville to Meyers. Chains required from 9 miles east of Placerville to Meyers.

Highway 88: Closed from 3.5 miles east of Silver Lake to 5 miles west of Picketts Junction. Chains required from 9 miles east of Pine Grove to 3.5 miles east of Silver Lake.

Highway 89: Closed at Emerald Bay State Park. Chains required from various points along the highway.

Highway 49: Closed from 3 miles north of Grass Valley to the Highway 89 junction. Chains required from 3.2 miles south of Grass Valley to Empire Street.

Highway 4: Chains required from Arnold to the Mt. Reba turnoff.

Highway 20: Eastbound traffic closed at Nevada Street in Nevada City. Chains required from the south Highway 49 junction to Nevada Street.

Avoid travel in the Sierra Nevada: If possible, postpone travel plans until the storm has passed and conditions have improved.

Check road conditions: Before traveling, check the latest road conditions and chain control requirements on the Caltrans website or app.

Be prepared for power outages: Have a backup plan in case of power outages, such as a generator or battery-powered lights. Charge electronic devices and have extra batteries on hand.

Stock up on supplies: Ensure you have adequate supplies of food, water, and medications in case you are stranded at home or on the road.

Stay informed: Monitor weather forecasts and news updates for the latest information on the storm.

A:: If caught in an avalanche, try to grab onto a tree or other object. If you are swept away, try to stay on the surface by using a swimming motion. Once the avalanche stops, try to create an air pocket around your face.

A:: Check the Pacific Gas & Electric Co. (PG&E) outage map on their website.