The Oregon Department of Transportation warns that unprepared drivers may face challenges through next week as a mix of winter storms are forecast for the Interstate 5 corridor and Cascade mountain passes. Conditions may cause either delays or closures so drivers should remain flexible.
“We are strongly urging drivers to come prepared when traveling over the mountain passes, especially with more than a foot of snow forecast for the I-5 corridor between Ashland and Redding,” said ODOT interim District Manager Jeremiah Griffin.
Since this is the first major winter storm of the season, Griffin urged drivers to check their travel kits and make sure their vehicle is ready for winter driving, including:
- Chains, and know how to install them
- Tires have good tread
- Wipes are clean and in good condition
- Heater and defroster.
Items for travel:
- Coats, hats, blankets
- No less than a half tank of gas
- Cell phone and charger
- Water and snacks
- Medications
Drivers should not drive over their abilities. The wisest decision may be to wait until conditions improve.
“There are no shortcuts,” said Jackson County Search and Rescue Coordinator, Sgt. Shawn Richards. “Stay on the main roads, don’t overly rely on your GPS to take a back road, inform family or friends of your travel timeline and know your vehicle’s limitations.”
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