January 12, 2024 3:40 a.m.

Severe winter weather Friday and Saturday will sweep into lower elevations including Portland, the Willamette Valley and the coast, in addition to the mountain passes and Columbia River Gorge.

Information from the Oregon Department of Transportation said snow and ice are not the only hazards brought by winter storms. Heavy rain and wind can cause landslides, rock fall, downed trees and high water on the roadway. Motorists should drive with caution no matter where they are going through the weekend.

Conditions are likely to make travel difficult or impossible at times, so rescheduling weekend travel plans may be the best option. Road and weather conditions can change quickly.

Portland is expecting snow starting Friday and the Columbia River Gorge is expecting near blizzard conditions with high winds, poor visibility and snow. Cascade passes are forecast to get heavy snow, high winds and near zero temperatures over the weekend.

For the latest state highway information, go to www.tripcheck.com.