Oregon and SW Washington Weather Closures and Alerts

So far the reports are few, we will keep you updated, this information includes Red Cross tips for making it through cold winter conditions.

(SALEM, Ore.) - Any time the weather turns dangerous outside, our staff kicks into high gear, prepared to bring you the latest information on closures of everything from schools and government buildings, to private industry, higher education, and all types of transportation routes.

Additionally, this report contains a number of important tips that will help families retain a higher level of comfort while raising the safety level during the bitter, cold days ahead.

Columbia Co. Schools:
Clatskanie Sch. Dist.: Bus Routes 1,4,5,7,8,10,12,14,& KG are on snow rts (Effective tomorrow - Tue Dec 8th)

Cowlitz Co. Schools:
Toutle Lake Sch. Dist.: No Si Town or Tower Rd bus (Effective tomorrow - Tue Dec 8th)

UPDATE:
Castle Rock Sch. Dist.: all schools starting on time but no bus service on hazel dell rd., garlock rd, olequa heights, kroll rd, carnine rd,cranberry rd,paine rd.

Portland Bureau of Transportation: CLOSURE - SW Hamilton Terrace between SW Bancroft and SW Hamilton streets. SW Hamilton Terrace is closed between SW Bancroft and SW Hamilton streets due to a natural spring overflowing that has flooded the roadway. Earlier report of a fire was not accurate - there was no fire. Bureau of Transportation crews are responding to apply de-icing chemical. Estimated re-opening is unknown at this time.

Oregon is prone to winter storms, and the Oregon Trail Chapter of the American Red Cross urges residents to take steps now to stay safer when severe weather threatens.

"By preparing together for winter storms, we can make our families safer and our communities stronger," Eric Corliss, Director of Emergency Services said.

"We can help you and your family create a disaster preparedness plan now, before our communities are threatened by dangerously low temperatures, snow, ice and strong winds."

As with any disaster, preparation can be the difference between life and death. The Red Cross recommends that individuals and families prepare for winter storms by:

Pack a winter-specific supply kit that includes a warm coat, hat, mittens or gloves, and water-resistant boots, along with extra blankets and extra warm clothing. Sand or non-clumping kitty litter is good to have on hand to help make walkways or steps less slippery. Additionally, make sure you have a first aid kit and essential medications, canned food and can opener, bottled water, flashlights and a battery-powered radio with extra batteries in your home in the event of a power outage.

A winter storm WATCH means winter storm conditions are possible within the next 36 to 48 hours. People in a watch area should review their winter storm plans and stay informed about weather conditions via NOAA Weather radio, or local radio or television stations. A winter storm WARNING means that life-threatening, severe winter conditions have begun or will begin within 24 hours. Individuals in a warning area should take precautions immediately.

Winterize your vehicle and keep the gas tank full, which will help to keep the fuel line from freezing. Make sure your home is properly insulated by installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic from the inside to help keep cold air out. Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected every year. Running water, even at a trickle, helps to prevent pipes from freezing.

For more winter storm safety tips, visit www.oregonredcross.org/winter. A free online preparedness course is also available at: oregonredcross.org/beredcrossready.

In Oregon, the American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disaster an average of 10 times a week ; supplies more than 90 percent of Oregon 's blood; teaches thousands of Oregonians lifesaving skills; offers transportation to seniors and the disabled; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization – not a government agency – and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit oregonredcross.org or join our award-winning blog at: oregonredcross.org/blog.