Government Camp, Ore. – Snow-covered roads are expected across the Oregon Cascades overnight and into Wednesday as several inches of mountain snow continue to accumulate near key passes and recreation areas around Mount Hood and the central Cascades.
According to the National Weather Service in Portland, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect until 5 p.m. PDT Wednesday for the North Oregon Cascades and the Cascades of Marion and Linn counties.
Snow is expected mainly above 3,000 feet, where 6 to 11 inches of additional accumulation could fall through Wednesday afternoon. Higher elevations along the peaks of Mount Hood above 5,500 feet could see even greater totals.
Travel impacts are expected along several mountain routes including U.S. 26 near Government Camp and OR-22 across Santiam Pass, as well as OR-126 at McKenzie Pass and Tombstone Summit. Gusty winds up to 35 mph may also reduce visibility at times and contribute to drifting snow along exposed ridgelines.
Communities and recreation areas including Government Camp, Santiam Junction, Breitenbush Springs, Timothy Lake, and Lost Lake may experience the most difficult travel conditions.
Transportation officials urge drivers to slow down, carry tire chains, and check road conditions through TripCheck or Oregon 511 before traveling into the Cascades.
The advisory remains active through Wednesday afternoon, and additional updates could be issued if snowfall intensifies in higher elevations.
