Pendleton, Oregon – Travel conditions across parts of northeastern Oregon are expected to deteriorate quickly Thursday as steady snowfall develops in the higher terrain of the Northern Blue Mountains.
Snow will continue through Thursday evening, with total accumulations expected to reach 6 to 10 inches in elevations above 4,000 feet. The heaviest snowfall will likely impact mountain passes and higher elevation routes where colder air allows snow to accumulate more efficiently.
According to the National Weather Service, the advisory remains in effect through 10 p.m. Thursday, with the greatest impacts expected across the Northern Blue Mountains near Tollgate, Meacham, and the higher terrain east of Pendleton.
Drivers traveling along Interstate 84 between Pendleton and La Grande should prepare for winter driving conditions as snow showers intensify across nearby mountain areas. Travel along Oregon Highway 204 through the Tollgate area could be especially hazardous due to accumulating snow, slick pavement, and reduced visibility during heavier bursts of snowfall.
Road conditions may deteriorate quickly at higher elevations where snow-covered pavement and icy spots could develop by the afternoon and evening hours. Visibility may also drop significantly during periods of heavier snowfall, making travel more difficult for motorists crossing mountain passes.
Transportation officials encourage drivers to check road conditions before heading into the mountains and allow extra time for travel if crossing the Blue Mountains Thursday.
Motorists should also reduce speed, increase following distance, and carry winter travel supplies when driving through higher elevations.
Snowfall is expected to gradually taper later Thursday night, but slick conditions could linger into early Friday morning across mountain highways in northeastern Oregon.
