Wet Storm Brings Rain, Snow; All Roads Free of Chain Requirements as of Monday

Big Bear Valley, CA — Though this weekend’s storm was a wet one, bringing rain to the lower elevations within the Big Bear Valley, atop the resorts (and at higher elevations for Saturday’s Snowshoe the Bear race, which launched from the Village before venturing onto San Bernardino National Forest trails), it is guesstimated that we received roughly eight inches of fresh snowfall. Stormy weather had prompted chain requirements on all local roads and highways over the weekend but, as of this morning [Monday, February 8], CalTrans has lifted all requirements. Though chains are not required on Highways 18, 38 or 330, or on roads within the Big Bear Valley, there may be areas, such as residential streets, where the use of chains may continue to be beneficial. But, officially, chains are not required at this time, though motorists are required to carry chains when traveling in the mountains during the winter months. Highway restrictions for big rigs and buses have also been lifted, per CalTrans. Also, snow conditions do remain in effect, so no parking of vehicles on city streets.