Surprise Snowstorm in SoCal Strands Travelers

February 15, 2008 A thirty-mile stretch of Interstate 8 had to be closed, it's the interstate that runs along the Mexican border and is the main interstate between San Diego and Yuma Arizona. It was closed because of snow and icy conditions which caused numerous accidents and stopped vehicles in their tracks.

As many as 500 people are stranded as a result of the road closure near the town of Alpine. Cal Fire, the CHP and the Sheriff's Department tried to help as many the stranded motorists as possible, but no one can get through, including rescue crews.

However, that didn't stop snow plows from working throughout the night. The American Red Cross set up shelters for people stranded and sent teams out to distribute food and blankets.