Kris Strickler Director | Oregon Department Of Transportation
Kris Strickler Director | Oregon Department Of Transportation
A significant traffic incident occurred Thursday morning on I-84, resulting in the closure of westbound lanes from Hood River to four miles west of Multnomah Falls. The crash, involving an estimated 20 to 30 vehicles, was attributed to severe winter weather conditions that led to a whiteout scenario. The incident took place three miles west between mileposts 28 and 29.
The road conditions in the affected areas are slick but passable. High winds and snow, coupled with drivers traveling too fast for the conditions, contributed to the crashes. As of the latest update, there is no estimated time for reopening as crews work diligently to clear the scene.
Additional closures have been reported along the I-84 corridor: both directions between La Grande (Exit 265) and Baker City (Exit 302), and westbound lanes are closed to trucks between Ontario (Exit 374) and Baker City (Exit 302). These closures result from blowing and drifting snow reducing visibility to less than 500 feet.
Authorities advise checking conditions at TripCheck.com before travel. Motorists are urged to slow down, increase following distances, ensure their vehicles are winter-ready, and use headlights while clearing snow from windows. Public transit users should check schedules in advance.
Travelers are reminded not to pass snowplows on the right and give workers space. Vehicles abandoned will be towed; staying with your car is advised if it is safe.
Ryan McCrary can be contacted for further information at 503-983-5506.