Hadwick encourages residents to prepare and stay informed during our winter weather

According to a statement from District 1 Assemblymember Heather Hadwick, as winter storms move through Northern California, I am urging residents across Assembly District 1 to take precautions and stay informed as hazardous weather conditions develop.

Today, our community is facing an unimaginable loss. Eight of the missing skiers who were reported missing after the avalanche at Frog Lake have been confirmed deceased. Six individuals were rescued during this emergency, and one person remains unaccounted for. Our hearts are with their families and loved ones during this painful time.

This powerful winter storm has carved a destructive path across our region, creating severe road conditions, fatal collisions, stranded drivers, avalanche danger and widespread devastation. This is not routine winter weather — it is a life-threatening event impacting communities across our area.

I want to express my deep gratitude to the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office, the California Office of Emergency Services, our first responders, search and rescue teams, the California Department of Transportation and the California Highway Patrol. Their professionalism, coordination, and tireless dedication under extremely hazardous conditions are extraordinary.

To everyone in the affected areas: please take weather warnings seriously. Follow evacuation orders, avoid unnecessary travel and listen carefully to emergency officials. These warnings are issued to protect lives — and taking them to heart can prevent further tragedy.

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for much of Northern California through 10 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 19. Because weather alerts can change rapidly, residents are encouraged to stay updated as conditions evolve.

Forecasts indicate periods of heavy snow, strong winds, icy roadways and reduced visibility—particularly in higher elevations and mountain corridors. These conditions may result in dangerous travel situations, including chain controls, road closures, power outages and extended delays.

There have already been dozens of crashes, resulting in the closure of Interstate 80 over Donner Summit on Monday, Feb. 17. Travelers are urged to exercise extreme caution and stay home if possible.

Below are some safety tips for handling this weather and links for finding further information.

Residents are encouraged to
• Avoid unnecessary travel during storm events.
• Check road and weather conditions before heading out
• Carry chains and an emergency kit when traveling.
• Slow down and allow extra time on icy or snow-covered roads.
• Comply with all chain control and road closure requirements

Residents should also prepare for potential power outages by charging electronic devices, securing safe backup heat sources and ensuring food, water, and emergency supplies are stocked.

Community members are encouraged to sign up for local emergency alert systems through their county to receive real-time notifications through their county sheriff’s office.

Ranchers and rural residents are urged to take additional precautions to protect livestock, water systems and infrastructure during severe weather.

If travel is unavoidable, ensure your vehicle is equipped with an emergency kit, including food, water, blankets, jumper cables, a flashlight and extra batteries.

Please continue to monitor local forecasts and follow guidance from the National Weather Service, Caltrans, CHP and local emergency officials.

For real-time updates, road conditions, and safety resources, visit:

QuickMap (Caltrans): https://quickmap.dot.ca.gov/

National Weather Service: https://www.weather.gov/

Caltrans Road Conditions: https://roads.dot.ca.gov/

Caltrans Travel Information: https://dot.ca.gov/travel

Your safety is our top priority. Please take care of yourself, your loved ones, and your neighbors during this winter weather event.