Winter Weather in Eastern Oregon brings fun, challenges
By Braden Way on Friday, December 31st, 2021 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
BAKER CITY – Winter weather in Eastern Oregon is a double edged sword. Yesterday the extended snowfall and winter weather resulted in several closures, including I-84 West and Eastbound and Highway 204 over Tollgate.
In contrast, the snow was a boon for Anthony Lakes Ski Resort. In this morning’s conditions report, titled Bert’s Report, 11 inches of new snow has accumulated over the last 24 hours.
While the winter weather holds the promise of fun for winter sports enthusiasts, the challenges has presented are also very real.
La Grande Park and Recreation announced that Veteran’s Memorial Pool would close due to the winter weather on December 30th and 31st.
OSP has repeatedly encouraged motorists to drive with caution on winter roads to avoid crashes that hold up other travelers and pose grave threats to drivers and passengers.
Power companies like Idaho Power which supplies electrical services to areas of Eastern Oregon has issued warnings to vehicles about the dangers of crashing into power poles and how a driver should respond in that event.
And ODOT has indicated that, due to current staffing issues, winter maintenance of mountain passes would be more difficult than in previous years resulting in more winter closures.
If you are traveling in winter weather and or a resident Eastern Oregon, enjoy what winter has to offer but don’t forget to respect it.
