December 23, 2025 3:00 p.m. 

Staff with the Oregon Department of Transportation is urging travelers to plan carefully around the timing of a strong windstorm expected to impact Oregon on Christmas Eve, a peak holiday travel period.

Current forecasts call for strong winds from mid-morning through mid-day on Wednesday, when many people may be traveling to holiday gatherings or destinations. Travelers should plan their trips and activities accordingly.

High winds are likely to cause impacts across the coast, Willamette Valley and Cascade areas, including downed trees and limbs, debris on roadways, power outages, and downed power lines. Wet, saturated soils from recent storms increase the likelihood of falling trees and debris slides.

At the same time as the windstorm, winter weather will impact mountain passes in central and eastern Oregon, with snow and slick conditions continuing through the holiday weekend. Travelers crossing mountain passes should be prepared for winter driving conditions regardless of the weather at lower elevations.

The ODOT release said crews will be working day and night through the holiday, responding as conditions allow and continuing cleanup across the state. Travelers are asked to give crews space and patience as they work to keep the roads open and ensure people can reach their holiday destinations as safely as possible.

ODOT urges residents to plan ahead, adjust travel timing when possible and put safety first. For real-time road conditions, cameras, impacts and closures, go to www.tripcheck.com.