I-80 Closed in Both Directions Over Donner Summit

Hazardous conditions force closure of major California highway

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Interstate 80 over Donner Summit in California has been closed in both directions due to multiple spinouts, low visibility, and hazardous conditions, according to the California Highway Patrol in Truckee. There is currently no estimated time for the highway to reopen.

Why it matters

I-80 is a major transportation artery connecting Northern California to the rest of the state and beyond. Closures of this highway can significantly disrupt travel and commerce in the region, especially during the winter months when weather conditions can be treacherous over the Sierra Nevada mountains.

The details

The California Highway Patrol in Truckee reported that the closure of I-80 in both directions over Donner Summit was due to multiple vehicles spinning out, low visibility, and hazardous driving conditions. No timeline has been provided for when the highway may reopen.

  • The closure was announced on February 19, 2026 at around 6:52 PM.

The players

California Highway Patrol Truckee

The local branch of the California state police force responsible for monitoring and responding to incidents on Interstate 80 in the Truckee area.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Caltrans and the CHP will continue to monitor conditions and work to clear the highway and reopen I-80 over Donner Summit as soon as it is safe to do so.

The takeaway

This closure of a major transportation artery highlights the challenges that winter weather can pose for travel in the Sierra Nevada mountains, and the importance of road crews and emergency responders in keeping critical infrastructure like I-80 operational during severe conditions.