Portland, OR – Travel across the Cascades could become treacherous within hours Tuesday evening as heavy snow and strong winds move in, threatening to shut down key mountain routes overnight.
According to the National Weather Service in Portland, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect from 5 p.m. Tuesday until 5 a.m. Thursday for elevations above 2,500 feet across the Oregon and South Washington Cascades. Snow totals are expected to reach 12 to 21 inches, with wind gusts up to 45 mph creating blowing snow and sharply reduced visibility.
The hardest-hit areas will stretch from Marion to Lane counties, including Santiam Pass, Willamette Pass, and Government Camp. Roads like U.S. 26 and OR-22 are likely to become snow-covered and slick, especially on bridges and higher elevations where temperatures drop fastest. Conditions near Mt. St. Helens and Larch Mountain will also deteriorate სწრაფly Tuesday night.
Officials urge travelers to delay trips across the Cascades. Those who must drive should carry tire chains, pack emergency supplies, and allow extra time. Backcountry travel is strongly discouraged due to deep snow and wind.
Hazardous conditions will persist through early Thursday, and additional updates or extended warnings may be issued as the storm evolves.
