Pendleton, Oregon – Travel across the east slopes of the Oregon Cascades will deteriorate quickly by 4 a.m. Wednesday as heavy snow and 40 mph wind gusts reduce visibility and cover mountain roads through the evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Pendleton, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. Wednesday for elevations above 4,500 feet. Snow accumulations of 6 to 10 inches are expected across higher terrain near Sunriver, La Pine, Sisters and Camp Sherman.
Periods of moderate to heavy snowfall will combine with gusty winds to create low visibility, especially on exposed stretches of U.S. Highway 20 near Santiam Pass and Cascade Lakes Highway south of Bend. Blowing snow may briefly drop visibility below a half mile during heavier bursts. Winds could also snap small tree branches, creating isolated roadway debris.
The Wednesday morning commute will likely see rapidly changing conditions, with additional impacts possible into the evening as snowfall continues.
Drivers should carry chains, allow extra travel time and check TripCheck.com or call 511 before departure. Snow intensity should taper after 10 p.m., but slick roads may persist overnight at higher elevations.
