Government Camp, Oregon – Travel through Oregon’s Cascade passes could become dangerous within the next 24 hours as heavy snow ramps up Wednesday evening, bringing intense snowfall rates and low visibility.
According to the National Weather Service in Portland, a Winter Storm Watch is in effect from early Wednesday morning through Thursday afternoon, with the heaviest impacts expected Wednesday evening into Thursday morning. Snow totals of 10 to 18 inches are likely above 3,500 feet, with a 50 to 75 percent chance of snowfall rates exceeding 1 inch per hour during peak periods.
Conditions are expected to deteriorate rapidly along major routes including Highway 26 near Government Camp, as well as Santiam Pass and Willamette Pass. Santiam and Willamette passes have a high probability of exceeding 10 inches, while Government Camp could see slightly lower but still impactful totals.
Blowing snow and reduced visibility may create near-whiteout conditions at times, especially during overnight hours. Snow-covered roads and chain requirements are likely, with delays or closures possible across key mountain corridors.
Drivers should prepare for winter travel, carry chains, and check Oregon DOT updates before heading into the Cascades. Delaying non-essential travel during peak snowfall Wednesday night is strongly advised.
The watch remains in effect through Thursday afternoon, with warnings likely as snowfall intensity becomes more certain.
