Oregon's spring break faces rain and roadway challenges

Oregon's first weekend of spring break is set to be wet. Rain will continue in the valleys, while snow is expected in the mountains, especially at higher elevations. Many people in Oregon enjoy spring break slightly differently. Instead of heading to the beach, residents often visit the slopes or hike in misty areas. For those planning trips to the Oregon Coast or the Cascades, checking the weather is important. Several wet weather systems will hit the state on Friday as spring break starts for public schools. This means travelers should be aware of potential road delays. In the mountains, strong winds may accompany the snow. Travelers should also check road conditions at TripCheck.com. It’s wise to carry an emergency kit in your vehicle that includes extra food, water, and snow tires if driving in snowy areas. As of March 19, there are some road closures and delays. The Historic Columbia River Highway is closed due to a landslide. East Rim Drive at Crater Lake is not expected to reopen until July, and parts of Oregon 138 and Oregon 38 are also facing lane closures due to landslides. Although travel may be tricky, the weather is expected to improve. Rain and snow rates will decrease over the weekend, and warmer temperatures may clear up mountain passes by late Sunday or Monday. For updated forecasts, check the National Weather Service website.