Crews work to reopen Cascade mountain highways [UPDATED]

Trees over Oregon Highway 138 near Diamond Lake. (submitted photo)

The following is a press release from the Oregon Department of Transportation.

UPDATE: January 5, 2022, 2:00 PM

Oregon 138E, 62 and 230 are again open to traffic. ODOT crews from throughout southwest Oregon plowed deep snow, removed trees and cleared slides during the three day closure. Watch for crews and equipment as they continue to widen the narrow roadways. Budget extra time and be prepared for winter driving conditions when traveling over all Cascade mountain highways.

ORIGINAL: January 5, 2022, 11:00 AM

MEDFORD, Ore. – Crews are working to get three high Cascade highways reopened to traffic later today. Portions of Oregon 138E, 230 and 62 closed last night due to severe weather. 

As of 11 a.m. today:

• OR 138E closure moved from Glide (MP 16) to Toketee (MP 61). OR 138E from Toketee to the intersection with U.S. 97 is closed (MP 61-100).

• All of OR 230 remains closed.

• OR 62 remains closed from Prospect north to the intersection with OR 230 (MP 46-65).

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ODOT Snowblower working to clear Highway 230. (submitted photo)

Three ODOT snow blowers are cutting paths through the snow on the hardest hit areas of the highways, creating room for safe vehicle travel. Some areas received up to four feet of snow yesterday. More snow is forecast today, although not as much. 

Oregon Department of Forestry and contract crews are also in the area, cutting snow-laden branches and trees leaning over the roads, and assisting ODOT to remove fallen branches and trees.

Depending on weather, all or some sections of the highways may be open later today. 

Be prepared for severe winter travel in Cascade mountain passes. Take extra time and slow down. Carry chains, winter weather clothing, extra food and water.