Get ready: Winter returning to Central Oregon roads

Winter has officially arrived on Santiam Pass, which is covered in a thin layer of snow. Officials with the Oregon Department of Transportation are concerned drivers might not be fully prepared for snow and ice on the roads.

“Yeah, I think it sometimes catches people by surprise,” ODOT spokesman Rex Holloway said Thursday.

Just a few weeks ago, Central Oregon saw temperatures in the mid 60s. But now, the region has to brace for winter.

The mix can be tricky for travelers.

“On one section of highway, you could have snow, you could have ice, you could have bare pavement,” Holloway said.

Driving conditions can quickly turn dangerous. Fog, ice and even just the reflection of headlights on rainy pavement can reduce visibility.

“There can be more accidents around this time,” Holloway said.

Just over the past week, there were two accidents near Santiam Pass. On Wednesday, a pickup truck crashed into a snowplow, and three days earlier, four people were injured, including two young children, in a two-car crash.

On KTVZ’s Facebook page, Mary Clendenin said: “Santiam Pass is one of the most dangerous highways in Oregon. … You couldn’t PAY me to drive it, summer or winter.”

Abigail Henning said: “Santiam is dangerous even on a sunny and clear day.”

ODOT officials said they are ready and they’re putting down de-icer.

“Crews are now 24/7, and so any time there’s a snowstorm or icy conditions on the forecast, we’re out there working on the highways,” Holloway said.

Holloway said winter-weather motorists should always bring extra food and water and a blanket, in case drivers and passengers need to spend the night somewhere.

“Always check before you go,” Holloway said.

For the latest road conditions, you can go to Trip Check or ODOT’s website.