(KGTV) -- The stretch of Interstate 5 known as the Grapevine was shut down Thursday morning as a strong storm and snowy conditions wreaked havoc in the region and forced holiday travelers to seek alternate routes.
The California Highway Patrol closed down both directions of the freeway shortly after 4:30 a.m., citing poor visibility and the inclement weather.
According to Caltrans, northbound I-5 is closed at Lake Hughes Rd. in Castaic. Southbound I-5 is closed at Grapevine Rd., the agency said.
CHP officials urged motorists to use alternate routes for travel, including Highway 101.
Vehicles that were stranded on the roadway were being escorted by CHP officers, and crews would be working through the day to clear as much of the road as possible.
There is no immediate word as to when the frequently used stretch of I-5, between Santa Clarita and Mettler, will reopen.
