Snow on the Cascade passes

BE PREPARED FOR WINTER CONDITIONS OVER WILLAMETTE PASS AND SANTIAM PASS THIS  MORNING

May 22nd, 2013

Motorists traveling over mountain passes to and from the southern Willamette Valley this morning should be prepared for winter driving conditions and monitor http://www.TripCheck.com prior to traveling.

Approximately five inches of snow fell overnight on the Santiam Pass on US 20, and Willamette Pass on OR 58 (Willamette Hwy.).

Motorists should carry chains or traction devices, and extra clothing or blankets.

Chain requirements are being implemented on OR 58 at milepost 54, just west of the Salt Creek Tunnel (MP 56), where a major construction project is restricting travel to a single lane controlled by flaggers and a pilot car.  

Motorists are urged to reduce speed significantly as they approach the project limits and be prepared for 20 minute delays.

Conditions are expected to improve as the temperature warms later today.  If possible, motorists might want to delay travel in the higher elevations.

McKenzie River Reflections