Heavy snow closes roads in WA, OR, shuts off power

PENDLETON, Ore. (AP) — Heavy snow and high winds forced officials to close dozens of state roads in Oregon and shut Interstate 84 through the Columbia River Gorge and Interstate 90 at Snoqualmie Pass in Washington. The Oregon Department of Transportation said Monday in Umatilla County, snow drifts along roadways were several feet tall and white-out conditions were stopping snow plows from operating. The agency warned people who ignore road closures could become stranded for several days. In Washington, Interstate 90 at Snoqualmie Pass over the Cascade Mountains was closed Monday because of blowing snow and avalanche concerns. Pacific Power said it had restored service to more than 47,000 Oregon customers from Sunday to Monday afternoon.