Storms Can Bring Fallen Trees, Landslides and More
Oregon’s scenic roads, especially those winding through forested areas and mountainous terrain, are a hallmark of our state’s beauty. But after a storm, those same features can bring unique safety hazards to drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.
After a storm, our crews work closely with local partners to remove fallen trees, utility lines or debris. Chainsaws, heavy equipment and a lot of teamwork go into reopening roads as quickly and safely as possible, but we can’t be everywhere at once. If a storm impacts a wide area, entire road segments may be closed to allow for safe cleanup. Knowing what to expect, and how to respond, can help keep you safe.
Fallen debris
Storms and severe weather can leave behind debris on or near roads, especially in forested or mountainous areas.
- Rocks and loose soil can be dislodged by erosion, heavy rain, snowmelt and freeze-thaw cycles.
- Mud and water runoff can flood lanes or make roads slippery and cause hydroplaning.
- Wind, ice and snow can topple trees and send large branches onto the road.
- Power lines can be knocked down by ice, wind or falling trees.
- Heavy wind can blow other debris — like construction materials or trash — onto the road.
Hazard trees
Storms can weaken or damage trees near the road. These “hazard trees” are dead, dying, or structurally compromised trees that are likely to fall, but haven’t yet.
Snow, ice, and high winds can break branches or bring down entire trees, while heavy rain can saturate the ground and destabilize roots.
Flooding
Heavy rain and melting snow can trigger flooding, espcially in lower elevation areas.
- Slow down and make sure you can see the road.
- If you can’t see the road, don’t drive through the water. There could be harmful hidden hazards. Turn around and use a different route.
- Obey detour and closure signs. Never drive around a barricade. Roads are closed for a reason.
Slides and rockfall
Wet soil can cause landslides and smaller slides of rock, soil, and debris along roads throughout the state.
Some landslides happen suddenly during storms, while others are part of ongoing movement in known slide-prone areas. That’s why ODOT closely monitors many active slide zones throughout the state to help keep roads safe. Visit our webpage for more information on slides.
How to stay safe when traveling after a storm
Whether it’s debris, trees or slides, road hazards after storms can develop quickly and without warning. Follow these tips to protect yourself and help road crews do their work safely and efficiently:
Before you travel
- Plan ahead by checking weather forecasts and road conditions at TripCheck.com or by calling 511.
- If possible, delay travel during or immediately after a storm, especially in hard-hit areas.
On the Road
- Slow down and stay alert, debris or tree branches can appear suddenly, especially around curves or in low-visibility conditions.
- Never drive through what you can’t see. If the road is covered by water, mud or debris:
- Stop safely, preferably off the road.
- Turn on your hazard lights.
- Call 911 to report the hazard.
- Avoid driving over debris, even small items can damage your vehicle or cause you to lose control. Never drive over downed power lines.
- Keep your distance from trees or slopes that appear unstable. More debris or slides may follow.
- After a storm you may see lane closures, reduced speeds, or temporary stops. Obey all road signs and crew instructions when approaching work zones or tree removal areas. Never drive around a barricade.
- Slow down in work zones and give our crews space. Even better, if conditions are bad, delay your travel if you can. Fewer cars on the road help us work faster to restore access for everyone