(KGTV) – The California Highway Patrol reopened several roads to San Diego County’s mountains that had been shut down for several hours due to snow.
The snowy conditions that began in the mountains over the weekend worsened Sunday afternoon, prompting the National Weather Service to declare a Winter Storm Warning for the area. The NWS alert expired at 8 a.m., but the snowfall and cold temperatures caused numerous issues for the region.
On Sunday, the CHP shut down Sunrise Highway to SR-79, as well as SR-79 to SR-78 in Julian. CHP officials said vehicles traveling in the area were required to have tire chains.
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Just after 10 a.m. Monday, CHP officials reopened SR-79 from I-8 to SR-78 into Julian. Vehicles traveling on that stretch were required to have tire chains. Sunrise Highway was reopened from Olde Highway 80 to Mile Point Marker 27.5, with the mandatory chain requirement in effect.
The snowfall on Sunday led numerous visitors to Julian and Mount Laguna, but that caused large crowds and traffic to form. With the conditions and crowds, the sheriff’s department’s Julian Substation advised travelers to stay away from Julian for their own safety.
Authorities are advising anyone heading to the mountain areas to check road conditions and weather forecasts before travel.
Travelers are urged to have tire chains and extra supplies.
Ahhh such a beautiful snowy day at Mt. Laguna! A lot of families took advantage of the holiday to head up here with their kids. Be safe and remember to bring your chains. @10News pic.twitter.com/yPSQLfUR3y
— Mimi Elkalla (@10NewsMimi) February 18, 2019
