Plan for heavy traffic during Thanksgiving holiday

Anyone on the roads today noticed a big influx of travelers, both inside the Tahoe basin and on the state's highways.

The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) advises motorists that experts are predicting a slight increase in all methods of travel nationwide, with about 47 million people traveling either by car or airplane for the Thanksgiving holiday.

In anticipation of holiday travel, and the potential for El Niño to deliver adverse weather to the northern San Joaquin Valley and Sierra foothills throughout this winter, Caltrans’ maintenance crews and mechanics have been busy preparing roadways for winter.

Culverts have been cleaned and drains have been cleared, so that excess water is diverted from the road and into appropriate basins. In addition, crews have replaced signs, refreshed striping and placed erosion control measures in preparation of a wet winter. While careful planning and evaluation is taking place across the region, the weather impact on the drought-stricken terrain cannot be predicted.

Maintenance crews have been out in force and Caltrans’ mechanics have been focused on preparing winter equipment for the challenge ahead. Caltrans has been preparing for snow and heavy rain by positioning equipment, materials and increasing staffing levels in regions most likely to experience extreme weather.

Caltrans has closed three mountain passes in District 10 for the season: Sonora Pass/State Route 108 (SR-108) in Tuolumne County, and Ebbetts Pass/SR-4 and Monitor Pass/SR-89 in Alpine County are not scheduled to open until the spring.

Caltrans and CHP advise motorists to:
· Plan ahead and check weather and road conditions before traveling.
· Utilize vehicle headlights during weather events, “see and be seen”.
· Reduce speed on wet surfaces and allow a safe distance from other vehicles.
· Pay attention to and follow flood warnings and barricades.
· Avoid driving through running or standing water, putting yourself, passengers, and your vehicle at risk. An average-sized vehicle can float in as little as 12 inches of water; deeper, moving water can carry vehicles away.
· Drive with caution and give plenty of space to road workers, law enforcement and emergency responders.

The 2015 El Nino is projected to be among the most powerful in recent record, according to the National Weather Service. Weather experts forecast a wetter-than-average winter, with weather events likely to peak in early 2016.

Caltrans and CHP advise the following:
· Motorists are reminded to make sure vehicles are in good working condition. Check tires, brakes, wipers, antifreeze, heaters and exhaust systems.
· Always carry chains when traveling to mountain areas – and be sure they fit.
· When chain controls are in effect, motorists must have chains or an all-wheel drive vehicle with snow tires to continue.
· Weather and road conditions can change rapidly, causing changes in chain control locations – know before you go.
· Motorists should carry blankets, water, food, a shovel, gloves and a flashlight.
· Monitor local weather and traffic reports before you get on the road.
· During major storms, CHP traffic breaks or escorts may be necessary, so be prepared for delays or extended periods of travel time.
· Watch for road signs providing road conditions and vehicle requirements.
· Follow directions from law enforcement, emergency responders, and road workers.