November 27, 2019 11:00 a.m.
Travelers heading out to celebrate Thanksgiving should be prepared for a variety of road conditions depending on their route and location.
An update from the Oregon Department of Transportation said while southern and central Oregon have been getting hammered by snow and wind making driving extremely dangerous, there could be high water, downed trees, landslides and other hazards in other areas of the state.
The update said anyone planning to travel over mountain passes and drive south into California should be particularly aware of heavy snow and blizzard-like conditions. Chain requirements on the Siskiyou Summit were lifted Wednesday morning. Drivers should have chains with them and be prepared to use them in California.
High winds and blowing snow continue to reduce visibility in southern and central Oregon with conditions changing frequently. Drivers should expect icy and snow-packed roads over most mountain passes and in higher terrain. The update said ODOT recommends delaying trips in these areas until driving conditions improve.
Forecasters expect overnight temperatures will be well below freezing over the next few nights which means that any moisture on the road will freeze. Travelers should pay attention to any temperature changes and adjust their driving accordingly.
ODOT said drivers should be ready for added congestion on Friday and Saturday in the Willamette Valley due to Black Friday shopping and the Oregon-Oregon State civil war game in Eugene.
For the latest information on road conditions, go to www.tripcheck.com.