Oregon Storm Warning Clouds Thanksgiving Travel Plans

ODOT, OSP warn motorists to prepare for the worst, Road updates are at www.Tripcheck.com, or call 511. From outside of Oregon, dial (503)588-2941.

Photo: JSU

(SALEM) - The National Weather Service issued a winter storm warning that calls for falling snow levels through Thanksgiving. ODOT and Oregon State Police advise drivers to leave plenty of time for traveling and carry chains or traction tires.

“We expect snow levels to lower steadily through Thanksgiving,” said Jay Stockton, meteorologist for the National Weather Service’s Medford office. “Travelers will likely encounter snow in the Cacades and Siskiyou mountain passes starting Tuesday night and continuing through Thanksgiving.”

The heaviest snowfall is expected Tuesday and Wednesday, according to Stockton. Road updates are online at www.Tripcheck.com, ODOT’s travel information web site, or by calling 511. From outside of Oregon, dial (503)588-2941.

ODOT advises motorists to prepare their vehicles for winter driving conditions. Before leaving, tell a family member or friend where you are going, the planned route and when you will return.

Be prepared! Before traveling in hazardous conditions, double-check the important areas of your vehicle:

¨ Inspect windshield wipers and fill the washer tank with winterized fluid. Properly inflate tires, including the spare, and carry tire chains.

¨ Check the heater, the defroster and the lights to make sure they are working properly. Check the age of your battery.

¨ Check the antifreeze and make sure hoses and belts are in good shape.

If you are driving in areas that have ice or snow on the road, remember these winter driving tips:

¨ Turn off your cruise control.

¨ If you lose traction and your vehicle feels like it’s floating, gradually slow down. Don’t slam on the brakes.

¨ Use caution when driving on bridges or concrete highways. These surfaces are the first to freeze and become slippery when the temperature drops.

¨ Slow down in advance of shaded areas, especially on curves. Shaded areas are cooler and may have ice that is difficult to see.

¨ Don’t pass snowplows or sanders, and don’t follow them too closely.

Make sure your vehicle is stocked with:

¨ A full fuel tank and a good highway map;

¨ An ice scraper, battery booster cables, road flares, properly inflated spare tire, vehicle jack, lug wrench and basic tool kit;

¨ A small shovel, a bag of cat litter or sand for traction in case you get stuck, and a plastic tarp to help keep you dry when installing tire chains;

¨ A flashlight with extra batteries and bulbs, an extra pair of winter gloves and a warm hat, a change of clothes and a warm blanket, snack foods, matches in a waterproof container, extra quarters for phone calls, a pocketknife and a first aid kit;

¨ A large thermos bottle filled with water or a hot drink; and

¨ A cell phone with fully charged extra batteries.

If you travel with an infant or baby, pack extra food, warm clothes and blankets, toys and games, and extra diapers, just in case. And always remember to buckle up and properly use your child safety seat.

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