Salem-News.com Washington articles Page 31

Closures and Delays in Oregon and SW Washington

Here is the latest roundup of closures and delays in place due to flooding and weather-related issues.

(SALEM, Ore.) - This latest list of delays and closures includes listings for Banks and Credit Unions, Counties/Regional, Police/Fire, Public Colleges and Universities, Schools, Transportation and Utilities.

We will keep this information as up to date as possible, but we suggest double checking information whenever possible. Conditions can worsen quickly and this list does receive constant updates.

Check Salem-News.com for numerous other weather-related articles; the weather in the northwest is potentially dangerous and every precaution taken is a good step.

Coast Guard Warns Residents to Prepare for Winter Storms

Safety tips from the Coast Guard as the northwest moves into storm season.

(PORTLAND, Ore.) - With severe weather approaching, the Coast Guard reminds boaters and beach-goers to be prepared and stay aware. Strong winds and heavy surf are forecast over the next several days.

Minimize contact with flood water - Standing water from flooding can carry diseases and hazardous chemicals.

If you get your water from a well and water floods into your pump house - check to see if water from the ground went down your well.

Gaza Conflict Sends Gas Prices Higher to Start 2009

The Oregon average for regular unleaded increases six-and-a-half cents in the past week to $1.81 while the national average gains seven cents to $1.69.

(PORTLAND, Ore.) - Continued fighting between Israeli and Palestinian forces in the Gaza Strip over the past week, and optimism for a resumption in economic growth in 2009 have propped up the price of oil and sent pump prices higher to start the new year, says AAA Oregon Public Affairs Director Marie Dodds.

"The Oregon average for regular unleaded increases six-and-a-half cents this week to $1.81, while the national average gains seven cents to $1.69. Despite the increases, drivers are still paying the lowest prices in nearly five years with the Oregon and national averages at their lowest point since February 2004."

She says just a year ago our national and Oregon averages were at $3.11, and crude oil first passed $100 a barrel.

Potential Danger of Debris Flows Issued for Large Portions of Western Oregon

The experts say drivers should not assume highways are safe.

(PORTLAND, Ore.) - The National Weather Service in Portland says residents need to be prepared for the potential of debris flows and landslides as part of a Flood Watch issued for large portions of Oregon.

Affected areas include the Cascade Foothills in Lane County, Cascades in Lane County, the Central Coast Range of western Oregon, the central coast, Willamette Valley, the Coast Range of the northwest Oregon, the Greater Portland Metro area, Lower Columbia, Northern Cascades, Upper Hood River Valley and the western Columbia Gorge.

Flood related problems are also expected in southwest Washington. Areas of concern include the greater Vancouver area, I-5 Corridor in Cowlitz County, the south Washington Cascade Foothills, south Washington Cascades, south Washington coast, Western Columbia River Gorge and Willapa.

Portland Police Arrest Person Of Interest in Longview Homicide

The victim, Jeremy M. McLean of Longview, was reported missing around 11:30 PM Monday night, December 29th, by his parents, after he did not return home that evening.

(LONGVIEW, Wash ) - Portland Police officers arrested a man today wanted in connection with a Murder in Washington December 29th. They also took the suspect's girlfriend into custody.

Cowlitz County detectives investigating the late December 2008 Murder case of 26-year old Jeremy McLean, say they identified 51-year old William Vance Reagan of Longview as a person of interest in the case.

Sheriff's Office Spokesman Charlie Rosenzweig, says a Portland Police Bureau Officer found the vehicle at a motel on N.E. Sandy Blvd near 112th at about 7:45 AM today. "Portland PB S.E.R.T. responded to the scene and took Reagan and Gatti in to custody without any resistance."

Marijuana Legalization: Retired Seattle Police Chief Says Obama Should Listen to Voters

We understand Mr. Obama has a full plate. Our economic crisis and the threat of terrorism are only two examples. However, we know that ending the drug war will offer a partial fix to both of these issues.

(SEATTLE) - In early December, Barack Obama invited Americans to participate in an unprecedented, bottom-up approach to government. Visitors to the President-elect’s official website, Change.gov, were able to submit questions and vote on which questions should take priority for the new administration.

More than a dozen of the top 50 questions called for amending America’s drug policies, with inquiries ranging from availability of doctor-recommended medical marijuana to the economic impact of continuing to arrest and incarcerate millions of people for drug offenses.

Latest Roundup of Closures, Openings and Delays in Oregon and SW Washington

This information was posted between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM December 26th.

(SALEM, Ore.) - We have been unable to keep up with the weather in the Northwest as our own facilities have been down. Here is the latest list of openings and closures in the area.

Salem-News Reports Affected by Weather

Salem-News.com's staff is dealing with the winter conditions and we apologze for the slower than usual rate of updates.

(SALEM, Ore.) - Western Oregon is socked in with hazardous weather. Snow, ice and sleet are causing all kinds of problems and emergency officials are asking the public to avoid traveling on the state's icy roads if possible.

Clark County Winter Weather Update: Hazardous Road Conditions

Vancouver crews unrelenting in battle with constant snow; Residents urged to stay off snow-packed, icy streets‏.

(VANCOUVER, Wash.) - As steady snowfall continues to cloak the City of Vancouver, unrelenting Public Works crews maintain their push to keep open critical streets connecting fire, police and hospitals.

All streets within the city were reported open as of 5:00 PM, but snow-packed and extremely slick in many areas as temperatures dropped. Side streets were socked with snow, 3 to 4 inches deep.

Vancouver Public Works urges residents to stay off the roads and avoid unnecessary travel if at all possible. For those who must drive, chains or traction tires are recommended. Please remain a safe distance from snow plows and other equipment, giving them ample room to safely do their job.

Weekend Storm Closures and Delays in Oregon and SW Washington

The cold weather continues, take note of these openings, delays and closures.

(SALEM, Ore.) - Here is the latest roundup of western Oregon and SW Washington closures, openings and delays. This list was created Saturday morning and is our most current at this time.

Among other concerns, residents are advised to allow extra time for travel and make sure somebody knows their route and expected time of arrival. Roads are slick and temperatures are low; it is not a good time to take short cuts.