SigAlert

American Slang

Definition

A California Highway Patrol traffic alert indicating a major unplanned incident expected to block one or more lanes for 30 minutes or more, commonly used in Southern California reports.

Examples

"CHP issued a SigAlert on the 405 north in West L.A. after a multi-car crash shut down three lanes for at least 30 minutes."

"Heads up—there’s a SigAlert on the 101 near Hollywood; a fuel spill is blocking two lanes and delays are expected for over half an hour."

"Avoid the 10 east in Santa Monica; a SigAlert is in effect after a jackknifed big rig, with lanes blocked for more than 30 minutes."