Severe Winter Storm Leaves Oregon and Southwest Washington Covered in Ice, Disrupting Travel and Power

A powerful winter storm swept through Oregon and Southwest Washington earlier this week, leaving behind a hazardous landscape of ice and snow. After days of relentless snowfall and freezing rain, roadways, airports, and public infrastructure remain significantly impacted.

As the storm subsides, residents are now grappling with dangerous icy conditions, travel disruptions, and lingering power outages.

Treacherous Road Conditions Lead to Major Accidents

The icy aftermath has made travel extremely dangerous, with multiple crashes reported on key highways and interstates. One of the most severe incidents occurred on Interstate 84 near Multnomah Falls, Oregon, where a 20-30 vehicle pileup blocked westbound lanes.

Whiteout conditions and icy roads were cited as the primary causes of the accident, which left four people injured. Among the vehicles involved, an SUV caught fire, but all occupants were safely evacuated.

Another series of crashes took place on Interstate 5 in Southern Washington, near the Cowlitz River, involving 22 vehicles. Six people sustained injuries and were transported to local hospitals. Authorities have urged drivers to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary.

Freezing Rain and Ice Wreak Havoc on Infrastructure

The Willamette Valley, home to cities like Eugene and Salem, was among the hardest-hit regions. Reports indicate that parts of the valley received up to 0.3 inches of ice accumulation, causing hazardous driving conditions and increasing the risk of downed trees and power lines.

The National Weather Service (NWS) issued Ice Storm Warnings across large portions of the region, impacting over a million residents. Authorities have warned of lingering risks, including falling tree limbs and slippery sidewalks.

School Closures and Flight Cancellations Add to Chaos

Numerous school districts, including Portland Public Schools and Salem-Keizer Public Schools, canceled classes due to dangerous weather conditions. Local officials have advised parents to monitor school district announcements for updates on reopening schedules.

Air travel was also severely disrupted, with Portland International Airport (PDX) reporting significant delays and flight cancellations as crews worked around the clock to de-ice runways.

Current Conditions and Weather Outlook

As of February 15, 2025, Portland and surrounding areas remain cold and icy, with temperatures hovering around 36°F (2°C).

According to meteorologists, the next several days will bring cloudy skies, occasional rain showers, and continued cold temperatures, keeping roads and sidewalks slippery. Below is the short-term forecast:

• Friday, February 14: Cloudy with a few showers, High: 38°F (3°C), Low: 33°F (0°C)
• Saturday, February 15: Cloudy and chilly, High: 43°F (6°C), Low: 40°F (4°C)
• Sunday, February 16: Cloudy with light rain, High: 50°F (10°C), Low: 44°F (6°C)
• Monday, February 17: Mostly cloudy with scattered showers, High: 53°F (12°C), Low: 41°F (5°C)

What Residents Should Do Next

Authorities urge residents to exercise caution when traveling and to avoid unnecessary trips until road conditions improve.

• Check road conditions before heading out by visiting Oregon Department of Transportation and Washington State Department of Transportation.
• Prepare for power outages by keeping emergency supplies on hand, including flashlights, batteries, and non-perishable food.
• Stay updated on weather alerts by following the National Weather Service.

Emergency response teams continue to work on restoring power, clearing fallen trees, and assisting stranded travelers. Residents are encouraged to report hazardous conditions to local authorities to prevent further accidents.

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