Oregonians in the Willamette Valley and Coast Range should brace for hazardous conditions as a major ice storm moves into the region. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an Ice Storm Warning, set to take effect from 10 p.m. Wednesday, February 12, through 4 a.m. Friday, February 14.
This powerful system is expected to bring dangerous freezing rain, icy roads, and potential power outages as it sweeps through the state. Officials are urging residents to stay indoors, as travel could become extremely dangerous.
What to Expect from the Ice Storm
- Significant Ice Accumulation – Up to 0.3 inches of ice is forecasted in some areas, which could coat roads, trees, and power lines, making conditions treacherous.
- Snowfall – Some locations could see up to 1 inch of snow before the precipitation changes over to freezing rain.
- Peak Danger Period – The worst conditions are expected between 4 a.m. and 6 a.m. Thursday, making the morning commute especially hazardous.
Cities and Regions Most Affected
The storm is expected to hit hardest in the Willamette Valley and Coast Range, including cities like:
✔️ Salem – Icy roads and freezing rain expected overnight Wednesday into Thursday.
✔️ Eugene – Heavy ice accumulation could cause dangerous road conditions and power outages.
✔️ Portland Suburbs – Areas in higher elevations could see a mix of snow and ice, leading to widespread travel disruptions.
Impact on Travel and Power
The National Weather Service is warning that travel could become life-threatening due to ice-covered roads, particularly on bridges, overpasses, and untreated highways.
- Road closures and delays are likely as ice makes driving extremely dangerous.
- Power outages are possible, as ice buildup could cause trees and power lines to collapse.
- Flights and public transportation may experience cancellations or delays due to icy runways and dangerous conditions.
How to Stay Safe During the Ice Storm
✔️ Avoid Travel – Roads could become impassable, so stay indoors if possible.
✔️ Stock Up on Essentials – Have food, water, flashlights, and extra blankets in case of power outages.
✔️ Stay Updated – Monitor the National Weather Service and local news for real-time updates.
✔️ Charge Devices – Keep phones, laptops, and backup power sources ready in case of an outage.
What’s Next?
The storm is expected to move out by early Friday, but lingering icy conditions could persist into the weekend. Road crews will be working to clear major highways, but residents should use extreme caution if heading outside.
For the latest storm updates, travel advisories, and emergency alerts, stay tuned to local news and the National Weather Service. Stay safe, Oregon—this storm could be one of the worst of the season!