ODOT travel alert: Winter storm expected in Gorge, Cascade passes; NWS winter storm warning, advisory

PORTLAND, Ore. (KTVZ) – Wind and snow may cause hazardous travel conditions in the Columbia River Gorge and mountain passes this week with a low probability of snow in the Portland area, the Oregon Department of Transportation advised Tuesday. 

The National Weather Service in Pendleton has issued a winter weather advisory for Central Oregon for 1-3 inches of snow between 4 a.m. Wednesday and 10 a.m. Thursday, warning to “plan on slippery road conditions.” Morning snow is expected to change to wet snow, possibly mixed with rain at times in the afternoon and evening.

A winter storm warning was issued in the Cascades for 10-20 inches of snow and 3-6 inches possible on the lower east slopes, including La Pine, Sunriver, Sisters and Camp Sherman. “Travel could be very difficult to impossible,” forecasters said, advising, “If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food and water in your vehicle, in case of an emergency.”

ODOT said maintenance crews will be ready with winter tools including plows, salt, de-icer and sand. If you must travel, be prepared. 

With various types of winter weather threats possible in Oregon, travelers need to be extra cautious on the roads in the days ahead. Travelers should consult Tripcheck.com and check weather forecasts on their planned routes. Tripcheck.com provides live cameras showing road conditions around the state, along with other information that can help travel planning including altitude and temperature.

If you must travel in winter weather, be prepared. Pack your vehicle with the essentials: tire chains, snacks, water, medications and warm clothing. Fill up your vehicle’s fuel tank and fully charge its battery. Plan your route ahead, and if you’re following GPS navigation, make sure it sticks to main roads because many rural roads are not maintained in severe weather and can be very treacherous.

If you’re walking or rolling to your destination, watch for lingering ice on sidewalks. Public transit is another option, but the winter weather may have caused schedule changes, so check those before you head out. For folks on bikes, road shoulders and bike lanes may be extra slushy, so be careful. For more winter weather driving tips, see our winter travel tips. To see pictures of the January 2024 winter event from across Oregon, see our January 2024 Flickr album.