Severe winter storms have swept across the Pacific Northwest, prompting widespread winter weather advisories and warnings particularly affecting the Cascades. Officials continue to urge residents to stay indoors and avoid travel, as both snow and gusty winds create hazardous conditions.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued advisories for the west slopes of the Cascades stretching from southern Washington through southern Oregon, with warnings expected to last until Friday morning. Particularly at elevations around 4,000 feet and above, travel could be challenging due to heavy snow and wind gusts.
Along with the winter storm warnings, there’s also been avalanche warnings issued for Mount Hood and Washington’s Stevens and Snoqualmie Passes. These alerts come as significant snowfall accumulations are reported across the area, especially on the east slopes of the central and northern Oregon Cascades, where winter storm warnings remain active through Thursday evening.
Early Thursday morning, reports indicated at least 7,000 people were without power throughout western Oregon, primarily concentrated in areas hit hardest by the storm. According to the NWS, the conditions worsened late Christmas evening as strong winds and heavy rains struck the Oregon Coast and inland valleys. The region most impacted by power issues includes southwest Oregon and the northwest coast where the winds were severe.
“(Additional) snow expected above 4,000 feet,” the National Weather Service stated. Forecasts predict total snow accumulation varying based on elevation: from 4,000 feet to 5,000 feet, accumulations are expected to reach between 4 to 10 inches, whereas regions above 5,000 feet could see total snowfall of up to 24 inches.
Travel on high mountain roads has become increasingly dangerous. Santiam Pass on Highway 20 and Willamette Pass on Highway 58 are likely to remain snow-covered throughout the day. Similar conditions have been reported around the Government Camp area and Highway 26 near Mount Hood.
"Periods of heavy snow and gusty winds could bring down tree branches and cause power outages," warned the NWS. These conditions not only create difficulties for those attempting to travel but also pose risks for property and personal safety throughout the storm.
Winds have been reported to gust between 35 to 55 mph this morning, particularly strong on well-exposed ridges. Such conditions have contributed to the considerable difficulties for emergency crews working diligently to restore electricity service to the affected areas, as they faced treacherous conditions themselves.
Officials are urging people to avoid travel over Cascade passes until at least Friday when weather conditions are forecasted to improve. Warnings against unnecessary travel aim to minimize risk and keep the roads clear for emergency response activities as needed.
Residents across the impacted regions are encouraged to stay updated on weather conditions and power restoration efforts, as the cooperation of the community is necessary to navigate the challenges brought on by this severe winter storm.
The current weather conditions serve as a reminder of the power and unpredictability of winter storms, and officials continue to monitor the situation closely, sharing updates as they become available.
