ODOT gears up for late-season storm expected to hit Cascade Mountain passes

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- After months of mild, dry weather, winter is making an unexpected comeback. A spring storm is set to sweep into the area this week, bringing snow and slick conditions to the mountain passes — and prompting Oregon Department of Transportation crews to shift back into winter mode.

This late-season weather can be tricky after a stretch of dry months, with drivers less prepared and road teams needing to move quickly to get plows and deicing equipment back in action. Snow and wind could make travel difficult across spots like Santiam and Willamette passes.

We’ll look at how ODOT adjusts its operations for these April storms and what drivers should keep in mind if they’re heading over the mountains. KTVZ's Claire Elmer will have the full report Tuesday on KTVZ News at 4:00p.m.