5 Freeway Closed as Blizzard effects LA County mountain areas

LOS ANGELES-CHP shut down the 5 Freeway early today as a blizzard made its way through Los Angeles County, leaving roads covered in blankets of snow and ice.

Traveling via the northbound 5 is closed at Parker Road in Castaic. The southbound 5 freeway is shut down at Grapevine. Officials have not determined when the highway will reopen CHP said.

A blizzard alert went into effect for Los Angeles County mountains a Friday, February 24, at 4 a.m., and is expected to endure until 4 p.m. Saturday.

The National Weather Service forecasters said up to 5 feet of snow could cover the mountains exceeding 4,000 feet, with winds blowing 80 mph that will create "near zero visibility." Higher elevations could see as much as 8 feet of snow, with accumulations of 6 to 12 inches possible at elevations between 2,000 and 4,000 feet,"including most major mountain passes."

 "near zero visibility." Higher elevations could see as much as 8 feet of snow, with accumulations of 6 to 12 inches possible at elevations between 2,000 and 4,000 feet,
"including most major mountain passes."
Officials are suggesting commuters stay off the roads due to dangerous driving conditions and take the necessary measures to be safe "Travel should be restricted to emergencies only," according to the agency. "If you must travel, have a winter survival kit with you. If you get stranded, stay with your vehicle." 

Written by Anita Johnson-Brown
 

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