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Snow Report: The Cascade Miracle

The "Late-Season Gift"
While the valley floor is prepping for 70-degree weather, the Cascades are sitting on a massive "miracle" refresh. According to the National Weather Service and recent NOAA station data, a powerful spring storm delivered a rare April powder alert across the High Desert’s backyard.

By the Numbers: Resort Totals
The midweek storm cycle was a major producer for our local peaks:

  • Mt. Bachelor: Picked up 12 to 13 inches of fresh accumulation. With a current base depth of approximately 43inches, conditions are prime for "Bluebird" spring riding.
  • Mt. Hood Meadows: Currently holding a solid 60-inch base following the midweek refresh.

Pass Report & Travel
The NWS Pendleton and Portland offices confirmed heavy impacts on all major mountain corridors.

  • Santiam & Willamette Passes: These routes saw between 10 and 18 inches of snow during the peak of the storm.
  • Current Status: While the Winter Weather Advisories have expired, expect 8 to 12 inches of snow lining the shoulders. Roads have largely cleared, but with temperatures spiking this weekend, we will see rapid melting and "slushy" conditions at pass levels by Saturday afternoon.

Forecaster’s Insider Tip
Timing is everything this weekend. The snow surface is going to be a "tale of two seasons." Expect firm, fast "Hero Snow" in the early mornings as the overnight freeze holds. By 1:00 PM, the intense April sun will turn that fresh powder into classic, "punchy" spring corn.

Bottom Line: Get up there early to catch the best of the midweek refresh before the "Great Easter Thaw" takes over!

Don't forget the sunscreen, sunglasses and hats tomorrow. Enjoy this beautiful Easter Weekend and drive safe out there Central Oregon!


Don’t forget to download the Local Alert Weather App to stay connected with our team of meteorologists. 

You can get access to LIVE radar and receive urgent weather alerts so you’re always prepared.

Article Topic Follows: Weather

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Lance Campbell

Lance is a Forecaster and Multimedia Journalist with KTVZ News. Learn more about Lance here.

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