MONO COUNTY – State Route 108 (Sonora Pass) and State Route 120 (Tioga Pass) are scheduled for temporary closures starting Wednesday, October 21, due to an incoming storm. Caltrans District 9 has announced these closures, which represent a proactive measure to ensure public safety along these crucial mountain passages.
SR-108 will see its gate near the Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center close at 8:00 AM on Wednesday. Later the same day, SR-120 will close at the Lee Vining gate, with its closure effective at 5:00 PM. These actions are the result of a coordinated effort involving Caltrans District 9, Caltrans District 10, and the California Highway Patrol, underscoring a comprehensive approach to managing road safety during anticipated severe weather.
The decision to close these high-elevation routes is a preventative safety measure. Mountain passes are particularly susceptible to rapidly changing weather conditions, including heavy snowfall and ice, which can make travel extremely hazardous. The incoming storm is expected to bring such conditions, necessitating the temporary suspension of access.
Following the passage of the storm, Caltrans District 9, in continued coordination with District 10 and the California Highway Patrol, will reassess the roadways. Officials will conduct thorough evaluations to determine when conditions are safe enough for the public to resume travel. The reopening of SR-108 and SR-120 will occur only after all necessary safety checks and clearing operations have been completed, prioritizing the well-being of motorists.
In light of the impending weather, Caltrans strongly advises all motorists to be prepared for storm conditions. Travelers should exercise extreme caution on the roads and remain vigilant for potentially dangerous icy road surfaces. Proper preparation might include ensuring vehicles are in good working order, having appropriate tires or chains, and carrying emergency supplies, especially for those who must travel in the region during this period.
For the most current information regarding road closures and conditions, the public is encouraged to consult the Caltrans QuickMap website or download its corresponding smartphone application. Additionally, updates are available via the Road Condition Hotline, which can be reached by calling 1-800-427-ROAD (7623).
Caltrans also provides accessibility services for individuals requiring information in alternate formats, such as Braille, large print, or through a sign language interpreter. Those needing assistance, including information in a language other than English, can contact Angela Bates at (760) 881-7145 or by dialing TTY 711. These resources ensure that essential road safety information is accessible to all members of the community.
