We spoke with folks at Caltrans, who say they strongly encourage preparing to drive in the snow.
This may be the first real storm we see, but it definitely won't be the last, so although it's early in the season, it's important to prepare for driving in the snow.
Jeremy Linder, the Public Information Officer for Caltrans District Three, said, "We haven't had too much activity yet, but now is the time to prepare. Especially if El Niño shapes up, the way everyone's been looking for later this year into early next year, so if you haven't done so already, dust off those chains, make sure those emergency supplies are packed."
Things that could be included in those emergency kits are water, snacks, blankets, and snow chains.
Making sure your wipers and headlights work before heading out is suggested, and keeping distance between you and the car in front of you will help prevent sudden stops.
Caltrans says driving with patience is important during these harsh conditions, especially when running into heavy equipment that's cleaning the roads.
"Stay prepared. Be mindful. We have a lot of moving equipment on the highway. You're going to see the plows out first, and then as we continue to get more and more storms, eventually the graders will be out. The snow blowers will be out, and any time you have that much equipment on the highway, we need the traveling public to be mindful of that," said Linder.
