Be Aware! Expect Extreme Winter Conditions on Oregon Mountain Passes

National Weather Service issues blizzard warning for Northern and Central Oregon Cascades

Severe mountain snow and ice was behind this crash Wednesday near Madras, see the story Multiple Ambulances Respond to Bus Crash on Highway 26 Photo Courtesy: Oregon State Police

(SALEM) - The Oregon Department of Transportation is advising motorists to expect severe roadway conditions when traveling over the mountain passes through the end of the week.

The National Weather Service has issued a Blizzard Warning for Central and Northern Oregon Cascades through 4:00 AM, Thursday.

The Blizzard Warning is expected to be replaced with a Winter Storm Warning or Heavy Snow Warning early Thursday morning.

Snow accumulations of 15-28 inches are likely by Thursday morning in the Central and Northern Oregon Cascades. Additionally, wind speeds of 25-35 miles per hour are expected at the passes with gusts nearing 70 miles per hour at the ridges.

According to the National Weather Service Forecast Office, "These strong winds will create blizzard conditions with visibility falling below one-quarter mile in blowing snow creating, white-out conditions." To learn more about this weather forecast please visit: http://www.wrh.noaa.gov/pqr/

During this Blizzard Warning, ODOT recommends motorists do not travel over the Central and Northern Oregon Cascades. Those choosing to travel through this area are advised to carry a winter survival kit and proper traction devices, and if stranded, to stay with their vehicle.

State law requires motorists to have chains or traction tires in or on their vehicle when traveling over Oregon mountain passes.

In very bad winter road conditions, all vehicles may be required to use chains regardless of the type of vehicle or type of tire being used.

This is known as a conditional road closure. A conditional road closure may occur on any highway in Oregon.

In addition to carrying chains or traction tires, drivers need to prepare for low visibility due to heavy snowfall. Vehicles need to be winter-ready with an emergency kit that includes food and water and have a full tank of gas before heading over mountain passes.

If you must drive in low-visibility conditions, here are some tips to remember:

Slow down. Do not drive faster than your vision permits. Increase following distance to ensure enough reaction time and stopping distance. Turn on all your lights, including hazard lights, to give other vehicles the opportunity to better notice your vehicle. Use low-beam headlights and fog lights. Do not use high beams. Use windshield wipers and the defroster, as needed, to maximize your ability to see.

Be ready for emergency stops by other vehicles. Turn off your cruise control so that you are in control of your vehicle. Use the right edge of the road or roadside reflectors as a guide. Listen for traffic you cannot see. Do not change lanes or pass other vehicles, unless absolutely necessary. Signal early and brake gently.

Watch for slow-moving or parked vehicles or snow plows. If you cannot see, pull completely off the road, preferably at a rest area, truck stop or parking lot.

For current road conditions, including road cameras and weather information, visit www.TripCheck.com or call 511. TripCheck.com also contains information on chain and traction tire requirements and other travel information.

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