Hwy. 20 reopens after slide-off west of Santiam Pass
(Update: Hwy. 20 open)
A pickup truck slid off snowy Highway 20 just west of the Santiam Pass Friday morning, and clearing it blocked traffic in both directions for a time as winter driving conditions returned to the Cascades.
Troopers said traffic in both directions was affected, with snow flurries continuing. ODOT TripCheck showed a backup forming, but better conditions at midday.
The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory for 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday for areas including the Ochoco-John Day Highlands and southern Blue Mountains. About 2-4 inches of snow are expected above 4,000 feet, with snow levels rising as the day progresses.
NewsChannel 21 Chief Meteorologist Bob Shaw said a cold, wet system from the Northwest was bringing showers and cooler weather ot the High Desert on Friday, with a chance of mixed showers overnight and blustery winds.
He noted a winter weather advisory also was in place for the Cascades, as Mt. Bachelor expects 12 to 20 inches of snow over the next 36 hours.
At lower elevations of the High Desert, Shaw said to expect a rainy, chilly Saturday, with highs in the mid 50s, but more sunshine and pleasant temperatures in the coming week.
