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| ODOT Winter Storm Preparation | ||
| 11/30/2007 | ||
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Rain, high winds and heavy traffic expected in western Oregon this weekend
The Oregon Department of Transportation warns motorists to be prepared for the winter conditions expected to hit Northwest Oregon with heavy rain, high winds and possibly snow during the next several days. ODOT maintenance crews are prepared to handle the winter conditions with additional shifts scheduled throughout the storm period. Maintenance crews have readied snow plows, sand spreaders and trucks with tanks of chemical de-icing compound to address highway conditions. Weather forecasts predict slick conditions Saturday morning with a potential for black ice in the Willamette Valley. Those driving to Eugene for the Civil War football game should proceed with caution. On Interstate 5, southbound traffic is typically very heavy prior to the home games, so those attending should allow for additional driving time before and after the event. ODOT asks motorists to use special care on bridges, on-ramps, off-ramps and transition ramps, which tend to ice up more quickly than other segments of roadway because they’re more exposed. The National Weather Service predicts strong winds along the coast and the Coast Range Sunday and Monday. Such winds frequently cause downed trees that can block the highways. Forecasted rain and tidal conditions may also cause flooding on U.S. 101. Flooding may lead to highway closure or restrictions for low profile vehicles. In the Cascade and Coastal mountains, heavy snow is expected. Those traveling over mountain passes should be prepared for extreme weather conditions. Safety tips for driving in winter conditions ♦ Check Oregon’s road conditions and weather forecasts at www.TripCheck.com before you leave, or call 5-1-1 (available from most cell phone service providers) for valuable travel information, updated continuously. Use these tips to prevent slips if there is ice or snow on the road ♦ Don’t use cruise control in wet, icy or snowy weather. Watch for snowplows and sanding trucks ♦ Following a plow or sander too closely can be dangerous — give them (and yourself) room. Follow Oregon chain laws ♦ Look for signs indicating when chains or traction tires are required. When required, pull over to the right of the highway as far as possible or pull into a “chain up” area. Be prepared by storing these supplies in your vehicle ♦ Tools: jack, lug wrench, shovel Know before you go! Before you go, visit www.TripCheck.com or call the numbers below for the latest in road conditions, weather forecast, chain requirements and incident information: • 5-1-1 (If available from your cell phone service provider) ##ODOT##
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