pandemic. the weather in the west is complicating the journey for many. these images are from northern california. torrential rain and heavy mountain snow expected right into christmas day. chief meteorologist ginger zee is standing by with the forecast, but first, abc's alex perez is in chicago. >> reporter: tonight, fiery crashes as millions take to the roads. in jackson county, wisconsin, freezing rain to blame for this chain reaction crash this morning. up to 40 cars and 20 semi-trucks, some engulfed in flames. at least 20 people injured. the highway still shut down tonight. that system heading into the northeast. meanwhile, in the west -- >> we do have some -- wait, wait, wait. >> reporter: our sacramento affiliate, news 10, broadcasting on the freeway before dawn. watch again, that car hydrplaning across the road and into the ditch. the news crew going back to