Salem-News.com Weather articles Page 6

NWS Issues FLOOD WATCH for Pacific NW

2-3 inches of rain is expected in the Coast Range and Willapa Hills.

(PORTLAND, Ore.) - The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for the Pacific NW with the possibility of minor flooding on area rivers and streams as well as localized urban flooding later tonight and Tuesday.

The Flood Watch is in effect from 7 p.m. this evening through Tuesday afternoon for portions of NW Oregon and SW Washington.

Pacific NW Expects Slight Snow and Sleet for Monday Morning Drive

Monday morning, precipitation will transition to rain.

(PORTLAND, Ore.) - Light snow and spotty freezing rain is expected late tonight into Monday up and down the I-5 corridor, according to the National Weather Service’s Special Weather Statement.

Mild and wet conditions will return to the region on Monday, but first, the cold air must leave.

Santiam Pass Experiencing Avalanches and Closures

Travelers stand a very high risk of being stranded if they travel over Santiam Pass

(SALEM, Ore.) - Heavy snowfall has already caused one avalanche, and another has closed Santiam Pass near Milepost 79.1 at approximately 7:45 p.m. tonight.

There is also a semi truck blocking passage on Highway 20 near Milepost 83. Reports indicate traffic is limited to one lane of travel.

Chains Recommended for Driving in Salem

Thursday we can expect a 20% chance of snow before 10 a.m.

(SALEM, Ore.) - Heavy snowfall is occurring in the Salem metropolitan area and expected to continue into the evening hours.

Travel conditions are worsening on local streets and roadways that have accumulations of snow and ice. Motorists should try to avoid any unnecessary travel this evening.

Winter Weather Message: Freezing Rain Advisory

Many roads, sidewalks and bike paths will be slick.

(PORTLAND, Ore.) - A Freezing Rain Advisory is now in effect until 7 a.m. Friday for the Central Willamette Valley including the cities of Salem and McMinnville, according to the National Weather Service.

Periods of freezing rain or freezing drizzle will cause travel difficulties. Be prepared for slippery roads. Slow down and use caution while driving.

Winter Storm Warning for NW Oregon

This is the strongest storm of this type in quite a while.

(PORTLAND, Ore.) - An unusually strong winter storm will bring mixed precipitation across much of Southwest Washington and Northwest Oregon that will have significant impacts spreading North over the area Thursday.

A Winter Storm Warning means significant amounts of snow, sleet and ice are expected or occurring. Strong winds are also possible. This will make travel very hazardous or impossible.

Snow Expected on the Valley Floor Monday Morning

1 to 3 inches above 500 feet, with a trace to less than an inch below 500 feet is expected.

(SALEM, Ore.) - Snow levels may drop down to close to the valley floors late tonight and Monday morning. Accumulations at the valley floors will be highly dependent on how fast roads cool off and the snow begins to stick, according to the National Weather service.

A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 4 a.m. to 1 p.m. for the Central Willamette Valley, including the cities of Salem and McMinnville, and those in the vicinity.

More Snow Coming to the Oregon Cascades

Carry chains as well as extra provisions should you travel through the Cascades this weekend.

(PORTLAND, Ore.) - Snow amounts could reach 8 - 15 inches at higher elevations such as at Timberline ski resort and at Mount Hood meadows. Amounts at the passes through the Cascades could reach 4 - 8 inches.

The period of the heaviest snow in the south Washington Cascades will be from midnight Saturday night until noon Sunday.
the period of the heaviest snow in the north and central Oregon Cascades will be on Sunday.

High Wind Warning AND Winter Storm Warning for Southwest Oregon

The Heaviest Snow is expected this evening through early Monday morning.

(SALEM, Ore.) - SW OREGON: High Wind Warning remains in effect from 7 PM this evening to 10 AM PST Monday. Wind Advisory remains in effect from 7 PM this evening to 1 PM PST Monday.

Locations In the warning area include: Highway 31 between Paisley and Summer Lake, Highway 299 near Cedar pass. Highway 140 east of Lakeview and the higher terrain near Summer Lake and the Warner Mountains.

Slick Santiam Pass Kicks Off Winter Driving Conditions

Precarious driving conditions are upon us. Be Prepared.

(SANTIAM PASS, Ore.) - A crash on the Santiam Pass was reported by Oregon State Police, whereas a pickup lost control and struck an @OregonDOT snowplow. There were no injuries, but it was a vivid announcement that Winter driving conditions are here.

If you travel in Oregon’s winters, you will encounter snowplows and sanding trucks. Be Prepared before leaving on a road trip of any length. The Oregon Dept of Transportation recommends that you take your time, and plan the trip cautiously for a successful journey.