Ice and Snow Make Oregon Roads Treacherous

Oregon's Highway Department urges motorists to drive with caution.

Oregon's roads become slippery and dangerous during winter conditions. Photo by: Bonnie King

(SALEM, Ore.) - The National Weather Service has issued weather alerts for the Cascade foothills, from southern Washington through central Oregon. Icy conditions and wind may cause travel delays.

On Monday, snow is expected above 1000-2000 feet, with snow levels rising on Tuesday and lowering on Wednesday. Especially in the foothills of the Cascades, this means that precipitation may melt and refreeze, creating icy driving conditions.

ODOT crews will sand and apply de-icing compound to the roadways, but motorists should drive with caution. Extra care should be taken on hills, curves and bridges since these are often spots where ice may accumulate, especially in shady areas.

Avoid using cruise control. If you lose traction and your vehicle feels like it’s floating, gradually slow down without slamming on the brakes.

The northern and central coast will be under a high wind warning from late Monday until Tuesday evening. High winds may cause intermittent road closures due to fallen trees.

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ODOT advises drivers to give themselves plenty of time to travel and visit tripcheck.com or dial 511 for real time information about road conditions and trouble spots, including weather, construction, maintenance and traffic incidents.

For more winter travel tips, please visit the Salem-News.com Road Report.