Portland, OR – Travel through Oregon’s Cascade passes is becoming increasingly dangerous overnight, with the most intense snowfall expected to hit during the early Thursday morning hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Portland, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 5 p.m. Thursday for the Cascades of Lane, Marion, and Linn counties. Snow totals between 6 and 12 inches are expected, with snowfall rates exceeding 1 inch per hour likely between 2 a.m. and 8 a.m. Thursday along Santiam and Willamette Passes.
Key routes including Highway 20 at Santiam Pass and Highway 58 at Willamette Pass will see rapidly deteriorating conditions, with snow-covered roads, reduced visibility, and slick surfaces developing overnight. Bridges and higher elevations will ice over first, making travel especially hazardous during the morning commute.
Wind gusts up to 35 mph could lead to blowing snow and falling tree branches, adding to the risk for drivers and outdoor travelers.
Officials urge motorists to delay travel and prepare for winter driving conditions if heading through the Cascades. Conditions will remain hazardous through Thursday afternoon, with lingering impacts likely even after snowfall begins to taper.
