Oregon Braces for Another Round of Freezing Rain; Travelers Urged to Exercise Caution

Salem, Oregon- Northwest Oregon is set to face continuing challenging weather conditions as freezing rain is forecasted to hit the region from Tuesday through Wednesday morning. Residents and commuters are advised to brace themselves for potential road closures and hazardous travel conditions.

If you find it necessary to travel during this period, authorities recommend taking essential precautions. Carry tire chains, extra fuel, water, and other supplies to ensure you are well-prepared for an extended journey, considering the possible closure of roads if conditions worsen. The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) crews are actively working to reopen highways affected by ice and downed trees while gearing up for the next wave of the storm.

Portland and the Columbia River Gorge are expected to experience up to half an inch of ice on Tuesday. ODOT is on high alert and prepared to close Interstate 84 in the Columbia River Gorge preemptively to prevent motorists from getting stranded due to icy conditions. The highway may be closed between Troutdale and Hood River if deemed necessary.

While the northbound side of Interstate 5 south of Eugene is gradually clearing, accumulated ice continues to make the 15-20-mile stretch slow-moving. ODOT crews are sanding the affected areas, but they observe vehicles traveling too fast for the conditions when traffic is light. Oregon State Police are increasing patrols south of Eugene to enforce speed and chain laws.

In the Saginaw area, OR 99 between Cottage Grove and Creswell remains closed due to downed trees. Additionally, several Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offices are closed today due to adverse weather conditions.

Authorities strongly urge residents to consider delaying travel until later in the week, if possible. For those who must travel, preparations should include carrying tire chains, regardless of traction tires or four-wheel-drive. Adequate fuel, snacks, and blankets are also recommended, especially considering the challenging conditions experienced over the weekend.

For the latest state highway information and current closures, individuals are encouraged to visit Tripcheck.com. Weather updates can be obtained from the National Weather Service website.

Officials say safety remains the top priority for both travelers and road crews. Those opting to travel should plan for extra time, anticipate delays, and carry emergency supplies. Chain restrictions are in effect on certain highways, and drivers are reminded to give snowplows and emergency crews ample space to perform their duties.

Exercise caution at traffic signals that may be offline, treating them as four-way stops, and never drive over downed power lines to ensure the safety of all road users during this challenging weather period.