Government Camp, Ore. – Snow-covered highways and gusts up to 40 mph are creating hazardous mountain travel across the Oregon and Washington Cascades through 10 p.m. Saturday, with up to 8 inches of additional accumulation expected before conditions ease.
According to the National Weather Service in Portland, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect until 10 p.m. PST Saturday for the North Oregon Cascades and South Washington Cascades, including Government Camp, Mt. St. Helens, Indian Heaven Wilderness, Lost Lake and Bennett Pass. Forecasters expect up to 8 inches of new snow in higher elevations, along with wind gusts strong enough to blow snow across roadways and reduce visibility.
Highways such as U.S. 26 near Government Camp and stretches of State Route 14 and Forest Service roads near Mt. St. Helens may become slick quickly, especially on bridges and shaded passes. TripCheck and the Washington State Department of Transportation warn that chain requirements are possible at higher elevations through the evening.
In the Upper Hood River Valley, including Parkdale and Odell, wet snow could add up to 2 inches by late Saturday, making secondary roads and overpasses slippery.
Drivers should carry tire chains, blankets, water and a flashlight, and delay nonessential travel if possible. Conditions are expected to improve after 10 p.m., but slick spots could linger overnight as temperatures drop.
