A winter storm warning will be issued for mountain passes in Oregon this Christmas

The story was updated on December 25 at 9:46 a.m

A series of storms could hamper travel on the Cascade Mountain passes around Christmas, while strong winds, high waves and possible flooding could also have an impact.

Here is a summary of the warnings and advisories currently issued by the National Weather Service for Northwest Oregon.

Snow forecast for Cascade Mountain on mountain passes

A winter weather advisory was issued for the Cascade Mountain passes in Oregon for elevations of 4,500 feet from Wednesday through Friday morning at 1 p.m.

Snow will likely impact Santiam Pass (Highway 20), Willamette Pass (Highway 58), and the Government Camp area around Mount Hood (Highway 26). However, the extent of the impact can vary.

From 4,500 feet to 5,000 feet – meaning Santiam Pass and Government Camp – total snow accumulations of 6 to 11 inches are forecast. However, above 5,000 feet, where only Willamette Pass lies, total snow accumulations could reach 10 to 18 inches.

As snow depths continue and are subject to change right at the Cascade Passes, drivers should check the current weather forecast at https://www.weather.gov before leaving home and check reports on TripCheck.com.

Wind speeds of 25 to 45 mph are forecast tonight through Thursday.

“Travel may be difficult at times as roads are covered in snow,” the National Weather Service wrote.

Highways across the southern Cascade Mountains, such as Highways 138/230/62 near Diamond and Crater Lakes and Highway 140 to Klamath Falls, could also be affected.

Heavy rain causes rivers to rise in the Willamette Valley and mountains

A hydrological forecast has been issued for all of western Oregon for the remainder of the week as a number of systems will cause rivers and streams to rise from Wednesday evening (Christmas Day) through at least Sunday (December 29).

According to the NWS, there is currently a 15% to 30% chance that rivers west of the Cascades will reach minor flood stage over the next 10 days.

“Heavy rainfall can also cause water stagnation or localized flooding in cities, particularly in low-lying areas or other areas with poor drainage. This also increases the potential for landslides and debris flows,” the warning continues.

The exact path of the storms is unclear and would impact where flooding could occur.

A high wind warning is in effect for the Oregon Coast Range

A High Wind Warning has been issued for the Oregon Coast Range for winds up to 45-60 mph. The main impacts will affect areas above 1,000 feet. The warning is in effect from Wednesday night through Thursday morning.

The winds could affect travel on some roads in the Coast Range highlands.

“Damaging winds could knock down trees and power lines. Large-scale power outages are possible. Travel could be difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles,” NWS said.

High surf could make Oregon Coast beaches dangerous

A high surf advisory is in effect from Wednesday evening through Thursday night for beaches along the Oregon coast that could experience large waves and dangerous surf conditions, NWS said.

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