New Video: Snow shuts down I-8 for hours

Winter storm closes lanes in both directions

IMPERIAL COUNTY, Calif. (KYMA, KSWT, KECY) - A strong winter storm forced the California Highway Patrol to close a 50-miles stretch of Interstate 8 between Imperial Highway (SR-98) in Ocotillo and SR-79.

CHP shut down the roadway around 8:15 Thursday morning. Multiple cars got stuck in the area. Border Patrol agents had to help the Highway Patrol close side roads to protect travelers.

The highway re-opened around 11:30 with CHP escorting drivers through the

New video shows the mix of heavy snow and rain in the San Diego mountains near Alpine. Nearly eight-inches of show fell in the area. Even more fell in the mountains.

Weather conditions played a role in crashes and spinouts all along the interstate. CHP advises drivers to slow down, and be extra aware while negotiating wet and icy roads.