Kern County Braces for More Storms That Could Impact Businesses

Travelers face delays and concerns as high winds, rain, and snow approach the region.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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With Kern County expecting more severe weather, including high winds, rain, and snow, travelers are reporting delays at Meadows Field Airport in Bakersfield and concerns about potential closures of major highways like the Grapevine. Businesses that rely on transportation, like a local trucking company, are worried about the ripple effects of road closures and dangerous driving conditions.

Why it matters

Kern County has faced a series of powerful storms this winter, causing disruptions to travel and commerce. As another system approaches, the region must prepare for potential impacts on businesses, supply chains, and residents' ability to reach their destinations safely.

The details

At Meadows Field Airport, some passengers reported 45-minute delays, while others said their flights were running on time. Near the Grapevine, snow-capped mountains and dark clouds were visible as the storm approached. A traveler who works for a local trucking company expressed concern that a closure of the pass could affect his company's ability to make deliveries, as drivers could run out of operating hours if they have to turn around.

  • The latest storm system is expected to hit Kern County on February 18, 2026.

The players

Janice Borowy

A passenger at Meadows Field Airport who reported a 45-minute delay on her flight to Denver.

Michael Brown

A passenger at Meadows Field Airport who said he was not experiencing any delays or issues with his flight.

Brandon Followill

A traveler who works for a local trucking company and was concerned about the potential impact of Grapevine closures on his company's ability to make deliveries.

DC Williams

A California Highway Patrol officer who discussed the efforts to keep traffic moving and prevent ice buildup during the storm.

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What they’re saying

“Yeah, we have a delay now. I'm going into Denver and we got about a 45-minute delay. I compensated for it in my planning.”

— Janice Borowy (bakersfieldnow.com)

“No not delays are anything like that no.”

— Michael Brown (bakersfieldnow.com)

“Well with the snow coming in - you know dangerous road conditions, if they have an accident, or if the pass closes and we can't get through it affects the customers we hall for.”

— Brandon Followill, Traveler and trucking company employee (bakersfieldnow.com)

“If they don't open it soon enough our drivers will run out of operating hours. They'll have to turn around and go back home, and then the customers don't get their parts. So, it'll impact multiple people down the line.”

— Brandon Followill, Traveler and trucking company employee (bakersfieldnow.com)

“We try to keep traffic flowing to keep the road surface warm. That helps prevent the ice buildup.”

— DC Williams, California Highway Patrol Officer (bakersfieldnow.com)

What’s next

California Highway Patrol and local authorities will continue to monitor the storm and road conditions, working to keep major highways like the Grapevine open and safe for travelers.

The takeaway

As Kern County faces another round of severe winter weather, the region's businesses and residents must remain vigilant and prepared for potential disruptions to travel and supply chains. Effective coordination between transportation agencies, emergency responders, and the community will be crucial to mitigating the storm's impact.