Drivers should expect messy and rainy commute on Highway 17

Rain in Santa Cruz County is set to make Highway 17 even more of an unbearable commute as roadways were soaked Wednesday morning.

Water kicking up from tires resulted in low visibility and slick roads as drivers attempted their usual travel to and from the Santa Cruz area.

“We’ve had a lot of rain over the past few weeks,” says Officer Sam Courtney with the California Highway Patrol. “We’re expecting to see a lot of trees down, a lot of power lines down with some power outages possible.”

The last round of rainfall did just that. Although January’s rain saw a landslide occur along Highway 17 as well so CHP is on high alert.

They say drivers should be on high alert as well, especially with the many curves on Highway 17.

Laurel Curve was pointed out in particular, which has seen its share of vehicle collisions. Some of which have been fatal.

“Any time you’re driving through the mountain you should slow down because you won’t know what’s around that corner,” says Officer Courtney. “You never know if you’ll suddenly run into a landslide or an accident so just be sure to drive accordingly.”

Officer Courtney says those commuting on rain soaked roadways should take their time and report any damage to the CHP as soon as possible so officers can put up signage warning other drivers of dangerous road hazards.