UPDATE: A severe winter storm has descended upon Northern California, causing widespread power outages, flooded roads, and downed trees as of December 24, 2025. The KCRA 3 weather team has issued an Alert Day for both Wednesday and Thursday, warning residents of the potential dangers to public safety.
As of this morning, over 138,000 utility customers across the state are without power, according to the latest state dashboard. The National Weather Service has issued flash flood warnings for the Sacramento area, urging citizens to exercise caution around flooded roads and streams.
LIVE UPDATES:
– 7:30 p.m.: Residents in Calaveras County are using sandbags to prevent flooding, while powerful winds have knocked down trees in Grizzly Flats.
– 6:30 p.m.: Traffic on Interstate 80 is halted in both directions at Donner Summit due to multiple spinouts, according to Caltrans.
– 5:15 p.m.: A tree fell on a home in Carmichael, with no injuries reported as the residents were out of town.
– 5:00 p.m.: A flash flood warning is in effect until 7:30 p.m. for portions of the Sacramento area. Authorities stress the importance of avoiding flooded areas.
– 4:50 p.m.: Approximately 344 customers of the Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) are currently without power.
Motorists are advised that chain controls are now in effect on Interstate 80 and Highway 50. All vehicles except those with four-wheel drive and snow tires must install chains. The speed limit has been reduced to 30 mph on I-80 and 25 mph on Highway 50.
The storm has prompted evacuation warnings for the Cosgrove Creek area near Valley Springs, with local officials cautioning residents of potential threats to life and property. An evacuation order may follow if conditions worsen.
Earlier today, the California Highway Patrol reported a weather-related crash that resulted in at least one fatality on Franklin Boulevard shortly before 6 a.m. Emergency services are responding to numerous reports of spinouts and hazards on the roadways.
As the storm continues, emergency crews remain on high alert. In Sutter Creek, the Amador Fire Department is providing sandbags to residents in need. The community is urged to stay informed through local news channels as conditions rapidly evolve.
Residents should ensure they have emergency supplies ready and monitor local updates for real-time information. The KCRA weather team will continue to provide live coverage and updates as this situation unfolds.
Stay safe, and remember: Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads. For more detailed forecasts and live updates, download our app or visit our website.