Amador County – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) announced Friday the temporary closure of Ebbetts Pass in Alpine County and Sonora Pass in Tuolumne County due to current road conditions. This closure will occur periodically throughout the winter season. Caltrans said in a release that weather conditions on the passes have made for unsafe road conditions for both motorists and Caltrans crews. Caltrans issued a number of safety reminders. These include preparing for the worst conditions, remembering that winter weather and road conditions can change rapidly, carrying chains during snowy weather, and installing chains when highway signs indicate they are required. For the latest road condition information, you can tune your radio to the Caltrans Highway Advisory Radio (HAR) or call our Road Condition Hotline at 1-800-427-ROAD (7623). Changeable Message Signs with flashing beacons will have information regarding the pass closure. Story by Alex Lane. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.