If you live in Oregon, this winter storm is no joke. Heavy snow, freezing rain, and dangerous ice are making travel incredibly difficult, and conditions won’t improve anytime soon. The National Weather Service has issued Winter Storm Warnings and Ice Storm Warnings for much of the state, urging residents to stay off the roads and be ready for power outages.
Things are already getting messy out there—a 100-car pileup on I-84 has shut down traffic, and ice is weighing down power lines and tree limbs, increasing the risk of blackouts. If you live in Portland, Salem, Eugene, or anywhere in the Willamette Valley, here’s what’s happening and what to expect.
What’s Happening Right Now?
Portland Metro Area
- Winter Storm Warning through Friday morning
- Up to 2 more inches of snow expected
- Icy roads, especially on bridges and overpasses
- Possible power outages from ice buildup on trees and power lines
What This Means: If you were hoping to head out in the morning, think again—the roads will be slick, and traffic is likely to be slow-moving (if not a total mess).
Salem to Eugene (Central & Southern Willamette Valley)
- Ice Storm Warning in effect through Friday morning
- Freezing rain creating a thin but dangerous layer of ice on roads
- Higher risk of power outages as ice weighs down power lines
- Travel will be treacherous—stay home if you can!
What This Means: Even a small amount of ice can turn roads into a skating rink. If you don’t have to be out, stay put—it’s not worth the risk.
Major Traffic Issues & Road Closures
Massive 100-Car Pileup on I-84 Near Multnomah Falls
- Blinding whiteout conditions led to a chain-reaction crash involving cars and semi-trucks.
- An SUV caught fire, but thankfully, everyone made it out safely.
- Most injuries were minor, but the crash shut down the highway for hours.
- I-84 has since reopened, but conditions remain extremely dangerous.
What This Means: If you’re driving anywhere near the Gorge or high-elevation areas, expect icy conditions, reduced visibility, and possible road closures.
How to Stay Safe
Stay Off the Roads If You Can
- Driving on ice is nearly impossible, and even four-wheel drive won’t help much.
- If you must go out, drive slowly, allow extra space, and pack an emergency kit (blanket, flashlight, snacks, and water).
Prepare for Power Outages
- Ice buildup could knock out power in some areas.
- Charge your phone, grab extra blankets, and have flashlights and batteries ready.
Stay Warm—But Stay Safe
- If you’re using a space heater, keep it away from anything flammable and don’t leave it unattended.
- DO NOT use your oven or stove for heat—carbon monoxide poisoning is a real risk!
Stay Updated
- Keep checking local news, NOAA weather alerts, and emergency updates.
- Road conditions can change quickly—so don’t assume things will be fine just because they look OK when you leave.
This storm isn’t over yet, and conditions will remain dangerous through Friday morning.
If you can, stay home. The roads will be slick, visibility will be bad, and ice will make travel nearly impossible.
