Pendleton, OR – Mountain travel in the Blue Mountains could become nearly impossible by 5 p.m. today as heavy snow intensifies and buries roadways through Wednesday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Pendleton, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 3 p.m. Wednesday for the Northern Blue Mountains of Oregon and the Northwest Blue Mountains of Washington. Forecasters expect an additional 10 to 15 inches of snow, with the heaviest bands falling between 5 p.m. Tuesday and 7 a.m. Wednesday.
High elevations near Meacham, Tollgate and Ski Bluewood Resort will see the worst conditions. Snow-packed roads and reduced visibility will impact stretches of Interstate 84 near Meacham and mountain routes across Umatilla and Columbia counties. Plow crews may struggle to keep up during peak snowfall overnight.
Travelers should delay trips across the passes and carry tire chains, blankets, water and a flashlight in case of delays. Downed trees and isolated power outages are possible as snow weighs on branches.
Conditions should gradually improve after 3 p.m. Wednesday, but slick roads may linger into the evening commute as crews continue clearing operations.
