National Overview — Monday, November 17, 2025
A vigorous Western storm continues inland today, delivering heavy rain along the California coast and valleys and heavy mountain snow across the Sierra Nevada with travel restrictions over major passes. In the East, a departing low sustains lake-effect and upslope snow with blustery winds downwind of the Great Lakes into interior New England. Parts of Texas remain unusually warm but mainly dry. Expect rapidly changing conditions in squalls and over mountain passes, with localized flooding and reduced visibility common in the most active corridors.
Hotspot: California Coast and Metro Corridors (Flooding, Debris Flows)
- What to expect: Another round of moderate to locally heavy rain spreads south today. Flooding risk is elevated, including urban/poor drainage flooding and debris flows near recent burn scars. Brief torrents may pond water quickly.
- Key corridors/areas: Central and Southern California, including I-5 and US-101 (LA Basin to the Central Coast) and the I-10/I-15 passes. Watch canyon routes for rock/mud on the roadway.
- Driving impacts and tips:
- Slow for water-covered lanes; hydroplaning risk increases during heavier bursts.
- Increase following distance; avoid flooded underpasses and low spots.
- Expect delays through metro choke points where rainfall rates briefly spike.
Hotspot: Sierra Nevada, CA/NV (Heavy Snow, Chain Controls)
- What to expect: 6–12+ inches of wet snow in higher elevations with travel restrictions and chain controls likely. Strong ridge gusts at times. Accumulating snow is lowering toward lake level, with Winter Weather Advisories in effect for the Tahoe area through Monday.
- Key corridors/areas: I-80 over Donner Summit and US-50 at Echo Summit. CHP/Caltrans reported chain controls over Donner Summit Sunday; additional controls are possible today.
- Driving impacts and tips:
- Carry chains and be prepared to install; verify current restrictions before climbing the passes.
- Expect slick, slushy pavement and rapidly changing visibility in heavier bands.
- Plan extra time for I-80/US-50; stage earlier if your schedule allows.
Hotspot: Great Lakes into Interior Northeast (Lake-Effect/ Upslope Snow, Gusty Winds)
- What to expect: Persistent lake-effect and terrain-enhanced snow with areas of blowing snow. Additional moderate accumulations in favored snow belts and on northwest-facing slopes. Brisk crosswinds will add to handling challenges.
- Key corridors/areas:
- Western/Central NY and NW PA, including I-90 from Buffalo–Rochester–Syracuse and I-81 east of Lake Ontario; continuing lake-effect bands and gusty conditions.
- Northern NY/VT high terrain (Adirondacks/Greens), including I-87 (Adirondack Northway) and I-89; Winter Storm Warnings call for 10–15 inches on windward slopes, impacting commutes.
- Driving impacts and tips:
- Expect whiteout bursts in snow squalls; visibility can drop to near zero within minutes.
- Watch for drifting and slick ramps/bridges; reduce speed before entering lake-effect bands.
- Plan extra time for I-90/I-81 across NY; space out from high-profile vehicles in crosswinds.
Safety Tip of the Day
Rapid weather transitions are likely today—from heavy rain to mountain snow to sudden squalls. Before departure, check chain requirements, clear all vehicle lights and sensors, and set conservative speed targets for passes and lake-effect corridors. When visibility drops or water/snow covers lanes, slow down early and increase following distance to preserve stopping space.
Sources: National Weather Service, Weather Prediction Center, local NWS forecast offices, and state DOT/CHP updates.
This weather briefing was prepared exclusively for truckstopinsider.com.
