Portland, OR – A powerful winter storm is set to impact the South Washington Cascades, bringing heavy snowfall and strong winds through Tuesday afternoon. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning in effect until 4 p.m. PST Tuesday for elevations above 4,000 feet.
According to the National Weather Service in Portland, the storm will produce between 1 and 2 feet of snow. Winds are expected to gust as high as 65 mph, leading to dangerous travel conditions. Visibility may be reduced to less than a quarter-mile at times due to blowing and falling snow.
The affected areas include Mt. St. Helens, Larch Mountain, and the Indian Heaven Wilderness. Roadways, particularly bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous. Authorities recommend postponing travel until conditions improve.
For those who must travel, officials urge drivers to slow down, allow extra travel time, and carry emergency supplies. If a vehicle becomes stuck in deep snow, passengers should turn off the engine periodically to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Additionally, those using generators should keep them outdoors and away from windows and vents.
Outdoor recreation is discouraged due to the severe weather conditions. Hikers, skiers, and backcountry travelers are advised to delay plans until the storm passes. The public is encouraged to stay updated on changing conditions through official weather alerts.
