Heavy Mountain Snow Intensifies Overnight in Pendleton

Travel across Oregon's Cascade passes could become dangerous within hours as heavy snow ramps up Wednesday night.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 12:33am

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A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for the eastern slopes of the Oregon Cascades, with the heaviest snowfall expected overnight into early Thursday. Confidence is high that mountain passes will receive at least 2 inches of snow, with a 20 to 30 percent chance of totals exceeding 6 inches. Drivers are urged to delay non-essential travel, carry tire chains, and check road conditions as sudden changes in visibility and traction could lead to spinouts or closures in higher elevations.

Why it matters

Heavy snowfall in the Cascade mountain passes can have significant impacts on travel and transportation, potentially stranding drivers, closing key routes, and causing dangerous driving conditions. This storm could disrupt commutes and supply chains across the region.

The details

According to the National Weather Service in Pendleton, Santiam Pass and nearby routes are expected to see the most significant impacts, where snowfall rates could intensify rapidly after midnight. Road conditions may deteriorate quickly along key corridors, including OR-22 and US-20, with compact snow and reduced visibility likely through the early morning hours.

  • The Winter Storm Warning remains in effect overnight Wednesday into early Thursday.
  • The heaviest snowfall is expected overnight into early Thursday morning.
  • Snowfall will begin to taper later Thursday morning, but hazardous travel conditions may linger into midday.

The players

National Weather Service in Pendleton

The local office of the National Weather Service that issued the Winter Storm Warning for the Cascade mountain passes in Oregon.

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What’s next

Additional advisories remain possible as conditions evolve throughout the storm.

The takeaway

This winter storm has the potential to create extremely hazardous driving conditions in the Cascade mountain passes, underscoring the importance of heeding weather warnings, carrying proper equipment, and checking road conditions before attempting to travel through the affected areas.