Ortega Highway Back Open After Snow Closure, CHP Says

UPDATE 6:45 p.m.: CHP and Caltrans have now reopened the Ortega Highway, officials say.

“Both eastbound and westbound traffic lanes are completely opened,” CHP Officer Mike Lassig said. “Motorists are reminded to reduce speeds for inclement weather and always wear your seatbelt.”

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LAKE ELSINORE, CA— The California Highway Patrol closed down the Ortega Highway in between Lake Elsinore and Orange County on Thursday afternoon due to snow falling on the roadway, creating hazardous driving conditions.

CHP Officer Mike Lassig says that the Highway was closed in both directions at 4:10 p.m.

It will likely remain closed approximately four hours, “but it all depends on the weather.”

Currently, only residents who live in the Ortega area are allowed to pass Grand Street in Elsinore and Nichols Road in Orange County.