La Grande, OR – Powerful wind gusts up to 45 mph will whip through the Grande Ronde Valley beginning early Saturday morning, creating hazardous travel conditions across northeastern Oregon through the evening hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Pendleton, a Wind Advisory is in effect from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday for the Grande Ronde Valley. South-southeast winds will increase to 30 to 35 mph, with peak gusts reaching 45 mph. Forecasters classify the overall weather risk as minor, but drivers could still encounter difficult crosswinds, especially on open stretches of Interstate 84 and Highway 82.
Statewide, breezy conditions will stretch across portions of eastern Oregon, but the strongest winds will funnel directly through the Grande Ronde Valley, including La Grande, Island City and Cove. High-profile vehicles, including semitrucks and RVs, face the greatest risk of sudden gusts. Loose outdoor items may also be blown around.
Drivers should allow extra following distance, keep both hands on the wheel and check TripCheck for the latest road conditions before traveling. Secure patio furniture and trash bins ahead of the strongest gusts.
Winds are expected to ease after 10 p.m. Saturday, though additional advisories could be issued if conditions intensify.
