ODOT reopens stretches of 3 highways between Bend and Medford
MEDFORD, Ore. (KTVZ) -- ODOT said it was reopening three sections of highway Monday afternoon near Crater Lake, allowing direct travel between Medford and Bend.
-- Oregon 62 (Crater Lake Highway) reopened between Eagle Point and the Oregon 230 junction.
-- Oregon 230 (West Diamond Lake Highway) reopened for its entire length, from Oregon 62 to Oregon 138E.
-- Oregon 138E (North Umpqua Highway) reopened from the Oregon 230 junction to U.S. Highway 97.
Oregon 138E remains closed between Idleyld and the Oregon 230 junction (milepost 21-83).
When you encounter heavy smoke while driving:
* Slow down and stay alert.
* Turn on your headlights. Even during daylight hours your headlights will help others on the road see you. Use low-beams as high-beams reflect off the moisture in the air and cause glare.
* Use fog lights. If you have them, fog lights can help cut through the smoke.
* Keep plenty of space between you and other vehicles.
* If visibility becomes too dangerous to continue, pull off to the side of the road as soon as safely possible.
* Never stop in a travel lane. Look for a safe area completely off the road if possible and turn off all lights, including flashers, until it's safe to continue.
* Don't tailgate. Keep a steady, reliable pace. Remember that everyone else on the road is in the same fix you're in. They're counting on you to help show the way.
