Chain controls down on Highway 50 over Echo; Expect heavy traffic

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Happy President's Day! What will go down as a weekend remembered for years to come, residents will continue to shovel out and get on the road to ski, shop, and work, while visitors will hit the slopes or begin a journey home that most likely took them four-five times longer than normal.

With chain controls down over Echo Summit, the journey shouldn't be hampered by snow but it will be hampered by traffic. I80 has removed some restrictions and other roads might see more of the same as the day goes on and the sun shines.

There has been congestion on US50 near Sierra-at-Tahoe this morning, resulting in a slowing of traffic through Meyers. There are also many cars heading east towards Tahoe.

If heading home, pack supplies and patience, and use restrooms before beginning the journey. Stay to Highway 50 and don't let apps guide you to neighborhood streets that have yet to be plowed. Many drivers coming in on Friday and Saturday were guided to View Circle which is exactly that, a circle, but most got stuck and it was hours until they could be pulled out.

Best advice is to enjoy the day around Lake Tahoe and head home after the ski resorts close.

Up to the minute road conditions and cameras of the road ahead are available on smartphones and computers.

Check http://QuickMap.dot.ca.gov before you travel or download the free app on Google Play or iTunes. Some highways in the region remain closed for snow removal. Don’t blindly trust GPS systems.

For Nevada roads, visit https://nvroads.com.