Portland, Oregon – Drivers crossing Santiam Pass and Government Camp could encounter snow-covered pavement within hours as the first wave of accumulating snow spreads across the Cascades and Coast Range.
According to the National Weather Service in Portland, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect until 4 a.m. PST Friday for the North and Central Oregon Cascades, Cascade foothills, Coast Range and South Washington Cascades. The first round brings 4 to 9 inches in the mountains through Monday night, with 2 to 6 inches in the foothills. Additional waves are expected Tuesday through Thursday night, adding another 5 to 10 inches in higher elevations.
Key travel routes including Highway 22 over Santiam Pass, Highway 26 near Government Camp, Highway 58 at Willamette Pass and stretches near McKenzie Pass and Larch Mountain will likely see compact snow and icy bridges. Foothill communities such as Welches, Brightwood, Mill City, Detroit and Oakridge may see lighter totals but still face slick secondary roads.
Snowfall briefly tapers Tuesday before intensifying again Wednesday into Thursday. ODOT and WSDOT urge drivers to carry chains, blankets, water and extra batteries. Check TripCheck.com or WSDOT travel maps before heading out.
Conditions remain hazardous at times through early Friday as repeated snow rounds keep mountain roads slick.
