Snow closes massive section of Highway 101, shelter open for stranded drivers

EUREKA, Calif. — Over 60 miles of Highway 101 are closed as of Thursday evening after record snow levels fell on the North Coast.

According to Caltrans District 1, the road is fully closed from the Route 271 junction at Cummings to Reynolds Highway due to multiple spinouts and snow-related hazards.

The California Highway Patrol reported the road is closed until further notice.

It is unclear how many drivers are stuck on the highway at this time, but officials confirmed that Laytonville Healthy Start Harwood Hall is open as a temporary refuge for stranded motorists. It is located at 44400 Willis Ave., Laytonville, CA.

Roland Spence, a volunteer atthe community center, said the temporary shelter is supplying people with a warm space, some food, water, internet service and chairs. Resources are limited as the shelter has not yet been declared an emergency shelter. Spence said about 20 people were using the space as of 10:30 p.m.

Manny Machado, the public information officer for Caltrans District 1, Mendocino/Lake Counties, said maintenance crews are working to clear the roadways.

"The best advise we can give is for people to stay home,"Machado said. "If you do have to travel, carry chains, water and snacks, flashlights and extra batteries, blankets and keep your gas tank full. More snow is expected and we want everyone to be safe."

This is a developing story. For the latest traffic information, visit the Caltrans QuickMap for current road conditions at quickmap.dot.ca.gov.