Chains Required In Oregon's Santiam Pass

Winter driving conditions in all mountain passes expected

Salem-News.com

(BEND) - Oregon State Police troopers out of the Bend area are advising that conditions are slick on Highway 20 / Santiam Pass. There have been multiple vehicles not prepared for winter driving conditions.

It is currently posted in that area as "Chains Required - Traction Tires Allowed on Vehicles under 10,000 Pounds Gross Vehicle Weight" - this means that you must use chains if your vehicle is towing, being towed or weighs over 10,000 pounds. If your vehicle weights less than 10,000 pounds and is not towing or being towed you must use chains or traction tires. Drivers in violation may face a citation for $145.00.

Travelers in other mountain pass areas should also anticipate winter driving conditions and be prepared with the appropriate traction tires or chains. Similar conditions are starting to develop both directions on Interstate 5 in the Siskiyous and other mountain passes. If you are not prepared, find an alternate route that does not travel through the mountain passes.

More information may be obtained by calling 5-1-1 or checking www.tripcheck.com. Check seven day forecast Here