Sisters, Oregon – Heavy snow and 40 mph wind gusts will begin impacting travel above 4,500 feet by 4 a.m. Wednesday, creating dangerous driving conditions along US-20 and mountain routes through the East Slopes of the Oregon Cascades.
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, including Sisters, La Pine, Camp Sherman and Sunriver. Total snow accumulations between 6 and 10 inches are expected, with the heaviest bursts falling during the morning and midday hours.
Roads across Santiam Pass and higher stretches of US-20 and OR-22 will likely become snow-covered and slick before sunrise Wednesday. Gusts up to 40 mph could create blowing snow and visibility below one-quarter mile at times, especially in exposed areas. Tree branches weighed down by wet snow may snap, leading to isolated power outages.
Drivers traveling between Bend and the Willamette Valley should anticipate chain requirements and significant slowdowns. ODOT urges motorists to check tripcheck.com or dial 511 for updated road conditions before heading into the mountains.
Travelers should carry winter survival kits, including blankets, food and water, and allow extra time to reach destinations. Snow intensity will taper after sunset Wednesday, but slick and icy conditions may linger overnight as temperatures drop. Additional advisories could be issued if snowfall rates increase.
