Expect treacherous travel as wintry conditions stretch across state late this week
By Garrett Christensen on Thursday, February 13th, 2025 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
SALEM – (Release from the Oregon Department of Transportation) If you must travel, be prepared for slick roads, reduced visibility, and potential delays as freezing rain, ice, and snow are expected to create hazardous conditions across Oregon on Thursday and Friday.
This round of winter weather is likely to affect even low elevations inland and along the coast. Travelers should expect more snow at higher elevations across Oregon into the weekend.
Safe winter travel
If you need to travel, take these precautions:
- Check conditions before you go. Visit TripCheck.com for real-time road updates. Some cameras may be down during severe storms, so check multiple sources.
- Adjust for conditions. Slow down, increase following distance, and be extra cautious on bridges, ramps, and shaded areas, which freeze first.
- Keep your vehicle winter-ready. Ensure your tires, brakes, lights, and wipers are in good working order.
- Stay visible. Turn on headlights, clear snow from windows, and watch for pedestrians and cyclists.
- Follow roadside message signs. They provide critical safety alerts and road updates.
- Use public transit if possible. Check schedules in advance, as severe weather can impact service.
- Don’t pass snowplows. Drive at a safe distance from snowplows and other highway and emergency crews, and wait until they pull to the side before you pass. Never pass a snowplow on the right.
If you’re unsure about driving in snow and ice, consider delaying your trip or finding an alternative way to get where you need to go. Stay safe and be prepared for changing conditions.
Resources:
ODOT Flickr album: Winter 24-25 Photos.
Winter travel information and resources: Winter Travel Tips.
Snowplow safety graphic: Sharing the road with a snowplow.
News media contacts:
- Portland metro (Multnomah, Clackamas, Columbia, Hood River and Washington counties): Ryan McCrary, 503-983-5506
- Northwest Oregon for Clatsop, Tillamook, Marion and Yamhill counties: David House, 503-551-8641
- Northwest Oregon for Polk, Lincoln, Benton, Linn and Lane counties: Mindy McCartt, 503-507-6045
- Southwest Oregon: Julie Denney, 503-949-2366
- Central Oregon: Kacey Davey, 541-280-2716
- Eastern Oregon: Vicki Moles, 541-620-4527
