One more round of snow keeps many roads slick; bitter cold set to follow across High Desert
(Update: Winter storm warning replaced by winter weather advisory)
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – Much of Central Oregon got another dose of snow overnight and early Friday, making for more slick roads, to be followed by bitter cold in the coming days.
The National Weather Service in Pendleton canceled its winter storm warning for the region Friday morning as the storm moved on but replaced it with a winter weather advisory until 1 p.m. for up to another inch of light snow during the morning.
“Even light snowfall amounts can accumulate on roads and cause dangerous driving conditions due to slippery and snow-covered roads,” forecasters said, noting that hazardous conditions could impact the morning commute.
Crook County and Culver schools were on a two-hour delay Friday morning.
A snowy week is ending, but colder weather is due, with highs forecast to drop to the 20s next week and single-digit overnight lows.
On Thursday, when there were predictions of up to 5-6 more inches of snow, forecasters said, “Periods of moderate and heavy snow will combine with low visibilities to create difficult driving conditions. The hazardous conditions could impact the Thursday evening and Friday morning commutes.”
“Persons should consider delaying all travel,” they added. “If travel is absolutely necessary, drive with extreme caution. Consider taking a winter storm kit along with you, including such items as tire chains, booster cables, flashlight, shovel, blankets and extra clothing. Also take water, a first aid kit, and anything else that would help you survive, in case you become stranded.”
NewsChannel 21 Chief Meteorologist John Carroll had similar warnings for drivers.
"Roads are wet from the melting and tire friction today, so icy and snow-packed conditions are going to make driving around our towns difficult," he said.
Next week is expected to be "very cold," Carroll said, "with highs in the 20s and lows in the single digits. Prepare your home for the possibility of frozen pipes that come with this type of cold air."
