Pendleton, Oregon – Drivers along the eastern slopes of the Washington Cascades are facing dangerous travel conditions overnight as strong winds and heavy snow hammer mountain roads.
According to the National Weather Service in Pendleton, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for the lower slopes of the Eastern Washington Cascades, including Cle Elum, Cliffdell, and Appleton, until 5 p.m. Thursday. Up to 6 inches of snow has already fallen, and another 4 to 7 inches could accumulate above 1,500 feet. Wind gusts may reach 55 mph through late Thursday morning, increasing the risk of falling tree limbs and sharply reduced visibility.
Higher elevations are expected to see even more severe impacts. A separate Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 5 a.m. Friday for the upper slopes of the Cascade crest, including Roslyn and Easton. Forecasters expect total snowfall between 1 and 3 feet in those areas as repeated bands of heavy snow move through the mountains.
Periods of heavy snowfall combined with strong winds may create whiteout conditions on mountain roads and passes, making travel difficult or impossible at times.
Officials urge travelers to postpone nonessential trips across the Cascades and carry emergency supplies such as blankets, food, water, and tire chains in case vehicles become stranded.
Snow may briefly ease Thursday before intensifying again across higher elevations, with dangerous mountain travel conditions possible into early Friday.
