Oregon Department of Transportation crews are continuing their 24-hour coverage, plowing and sanding Oregon highways as they respond to snow, ice and high winds throughout the eastern portion of the state.
Currently, Interstate 84 is closed both directions between La Grande and Baker City and closed eastbound between La Grande and Pendleton. Conditions may change at any time and travelers are reminded to check TripCheck.com before heading out the door.
“There have been several crashes and vehicles are sliding on slick roads,” said ODOT Public Information Officer Tom Strandberg. “Many of the crashes are due to motorists driving too fast for the conditions. It is icy in spots and the blowing snow is impacting visibility and creating drifts on some roads. People need to slow down and give plenty of room for vehicles in front of them.”
Forecasts call for more winter weather over the next couple days. ODOT crews will continue to do what they can to make the highways as safe as possible, but all travelers should carefully consider travel plans and be prepared.
“We want everyone to get to their destinations safely,” Strandberg said. “Please drive with extreme caution, or wait until road conditions are more favorable.”ODOT recommends motorists consider delaying travel when conditions are severe. If you must drive in these conditions:
- Expect a long commute that could last hours. You never know when weather or traffic i
- Be ready to use your chains. Be patient. Go slow.
- ncidents will cause the road to be closed for extended periods.
- Keep fuel tank full (in case you get stuck in road closure).
- Carry emergency supplies (water, food, warm clothes, flashlight, etc.)
- Turn off your cruise control
- Increase the following distance between you and the vehicle ahead of you.
- Keep cell phone charged up (but don’t use it while driving)
- Keep a watch on weather conditions throughout the day in anticipation of the next snow storm which could make current road conditions worse. Tune to local radio stations for update travel information.
Call 5-1-1 or visit www.TripCheck.com for the latest real-time traffic updates and camera views of Oregon’s highways.
