Portland, Oregon – Mountain travel across the Cascades could become dangerous within hours Tuesday night as heavy snow and strong winds move in, threatening key routes with reduced visibility and snow-covered roads.
According to the National Weather Service in Portland, a Winter Storm Watch is in effect from 5 p.m. Tuesday through 5 a.m. Thursday for the North and Central Oregon Cascades and the South Washington Cascades. Snow totals between 10 and 18 inches are expected above 3,500 feet, with winds reaching 35 to 45 mph at pass level.
Major travel corridors including Santiam Pass, Government Camp along U.S. 26, and Willamette Pass could see rapid deterioration in conditions by late Tuesday evening. Blowing snow may reduce visibility significantly, especially overnight into Wednesday morning, creating hazardous driving conditions for both commuters and freight traffic.
ODOT and WSDOT urge travelers to prepare for winter driving conditions, including carrying tire chains, extra supplies, and checking pass conditions before departure. Delays and possible closures cannot be ruled out if snowfall rates intensify.
Conditions are expected to persist through Wednesday night before gradually improving early Thursday. Additional alerts or upgraded warnings may be issued as confidence in snowfall totals increases.
