ODOT: Up to 1,000 vehicles abandoned

by KGW News Staff http://www.kgw.com/home/Snow-falling-in-Salem-heading-north-80273412.html#

Posted on December 29, 2009 at 9:21 AM

Updated today at 1:12 PM

PORTLAND, Ore. -- Gradually warming temperatures and a break in precipitation helped travel conditions return to near normal Wednesday, the morning after a commuting nightmare caused by Tuesday's sudden snow storm.

Roads had thawed by noon and the morning commute was uneventful after a long night of frustrated waiting for the unlucky multitudes stuck in the snow. ODOT estimated as many as 1,000 vehicles had been abandoned overnight on the interstates and suburban arterials flowing out of Portland. Traffic Alerts / Road Conditions

Oregon State Police said there were 198 crashes reported in the northern part of the state, in Southern Oregon 93 wrecks were reported. There were no deaths involved, police said.

Tow trucks were out hauling off unclaimed vehicles that posed a danger. ODOT said direct all "Dude, Where's My Car?" reports to a central phone number, (503) 283-5859. Black ice was a concern at higher elevations earlier in the day but most of Portland was above freezing by 11 a.m., KGW Meteorologist Nick Allard said. Forecast

Another system heading into the area could make it a wet New Year, Allard added.



TriMet had chained up a fleet of 50 buses that would be used on "as-needed basis" and nine lines were running snow routes. Two bus lines were canceled Wednesday until the county gave an "all clear." MAX trains were operating on a regular schedule. TriMet


Portland was open for business, too, with city offices and bureaus opening for regular hours, according to spokesperson Warren Jimenez. Public alerts

Various schools south and east of Portland were canceling classes Wednesday. Closures


Snowstorm catches Portland/Vancouver off-guard


The surprise snow accumulations stranded many commuters in interminable traffic jams. Long delays were reported on I-84, I-5, Hwy 26, 217, and Hwy 99 late into the evening. Buses were also delayed and three lines canceled until TriMet could chain up its fleet.

SHARE/READ: Commute horror stories

The flurries were caused by a Pacific weather system that moved into the Willamette Valley and mixed with sub-freezing air funneled in from the Columbia River Gorge, which had cooled temperatures from The Dalles to NW Portland. Slick roads were blamed for several collisions across Clark County as well. Vancouver didn't get off easy but roadways were nowhere nearly as clogged across the river. Gorge communities saw even more snow, with as much as 7 inches of snow reported in areas of Hood River.

Many of those who didn't have to drive got outside to enjoy the sudden snow storm, which coincided with winter break for local schools.

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT - coast

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE PORTLAND OR
318 AM PST WED DEC 30 2009
ORZ001-002-WAZ021-302300-
NORTH OREGON COAST-CENTRAL OREGON COAST-SOUTH WASHINGTON COAST-
INCLUDING THE CITIES OF...ASTORIA...CANNON BEACH...TILLAMOOK...
LINCOLN CITY...NEWPORT...FLORENCE...RAYMOND...LONG BEACH...
CATHLAMET
318 AM PST WED DEC 30 2009
...INCREASING THREAT FOR COASTAL FLOODING THURSDAY THROUGH
SATURDAY...
...HIGH SURF CONDITIONS POSSIBLE FRIDAY AFTERNOON THROUGH FRIDAY
NIGHT...
INCREASINGLY HIGH ASTRONOMICAL TIDES WILL COMBINE WITH MODERATE
SOUTH WINDS THURSDAY THROUGH SATURDAY TO BRING A POTENTIAL FOR
COASTAL FLOODING. THE FIRST SOUTH WIND EPISODE WILL ARRIVE MIDDAY
THURSDAY WHICH COINCIDES WITH ONE OF THE HIGHEST HIGH TIDES OF THE
YEAR.
A SECOND SOUTH WIND EPISODE WILL DEVELOP AROUND MIDDAY FRIDAY AND
CONTINUE THROUGH SATURDAY MORNING. THE TIMES MOST SUSCEPTIBLE TO
MINOR TIDAL OVERFLOW OR COASTAL FLOODING WILL BE FRIDAY AROUND
MIDDAY AND AGAIN AROUND MIDDAY SATURDAY. LARGE WESTERLY SWELL
WILL ARRIVE ALONG THE COAST ON FRIDAY POSSIBLY GENERATING
HAZARDOUS SURF CONDITIONS AS WELL AS ADDING TO THE COASTAL
FLOODING POTENTIAL. SWELL MAY REACH 20 TO 25 FEET BY FRIDAY
AFTERNOON AND CONTINUE ABOVE 20 FEET THROUGH FRIDAY NIGHT.
AT TOKE POINT NEAR WILLAPA BAY...ASTRONOMICAL HIGH TIDES OF 11.1
FT WILL OCCUR AT THE MIDDAY TIDES THURSDAY...FRIDAY...AND SATURDAY.
WATER LEVELS OVER 11 FT CREATE MINOR TIDAL OVERFLOW CONDITIONS
WHILE 14.5 FT IS THE THRESHOLD FOR MORE WIDESPREAD COASTAL
FLOODING PROBLEMS.
THE MAGNITUDE OF THE TIDAL ANOMALY...THE HEIGHT OF THE ARRIVING
WESTERLY SWELL...AS WELL AS THE AMOUNT OF RUNOFF FROM COASTAL
RIVERS ARE ALL UNCERTAIN AT THIS TIME.
$$

Special Weather Statement

North Oregon Coast (Oregon)
SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE PORTLAND OR
618 AM PST TUE DEC 29 2009
ORZ001-002-WAZ021-292230-
NORTH OREGON COAST-CENTRAL OREGON COAST-SOUTH WASHINGTON COAST-
INCLUDING THE CITIES OF...ASTORIA...CANNON BEACH...TILLAMOOK...
LINCOLN CITY...NEWPORT...FLORENCE...RAYMOND...LONG BEACH...
CATHLAMET
618 AM PST TUE DEC 29 2009
...INCREASING THREAT FOR COASTAL FLOODING LATE THIS WEEK...
INCREASINGLY HIGH ASTRONOMICAL TIDES COMBINED WITH A POTENT
PACIFIC STORM SYSTEM WILL BRING STRONG SOUTHERLY WINDS TO THE
COAST AND THE POTENTIAL FOR COASTAL FLOODING TOWARD THE END OF
THE WEEK. THE FIRST OF THESE STRONGER FRONTS IS EXPECTED TO MAKE
LANDFALL MIDDAY THURSDAY WHICH COINCIDES WITH ONE OF THE HIGHEST
HIGH TIDES OF THE YEAR.
A SECOND POWERFUL FRONT WILL SWING ON SHORE ON FRIDAY ALSO NEAR
THE TIME OF HIGH TIDE. LARGE WESTERLY SWELL GENERATED BY THE STORM
SYSTEM WILL ARRIVE AT THE COAST ON FRIDAY POSSIBLY GENERATING
HAZARDOUS SURF CONDITIONS AS WELL AS ADDING TO THE COASTAL
FLOODING POTENTIAL.
AT TOKE POINT NEAR WILLAPA BAY...ASTRONOMICAL HIGH TIDES OF 11.1
FT WILL OCCUR AT THE MIDDAY TIDES THURSDAY AND FRIDAY. WATER
LEVELS OVER 11 FT CREATE MINOR TIDAL OVERFLOWS WHILE 14.5 FT IS
THE THRESHOLD FOR MORE WIDESPREAD COASTAL FLOODING PROBLEMS. THE
MAGNITUDE OF TIDAL ANOMALY...THE ADDITIONAL BOOST TO THE COASTAL
WATER LEVEL DUE TO THE ACTION OF FRONTAL SYSTEM ITSELF...IS STILL
UNCERTAIN. HOWEVER IF THE STORM IS A STRONG ONE IT COULD ADD AN
ADDITIONAL 2 TO 4 FEET TO THE BASE ASTRONOMICAL TIDE.
FACTORS THAT WILL INFLUENCE THE FINAL WATER HEIGHT INCLUDE...THE
DEPTH OF THE LOW PRESSURE AREA AND STRENGTH OF THE WINDS...THE
AMOUNT OF RUNOFF ADDED TO THE COASTAL RIVERS AND THE AMOUNT WAVE
ACTION ALONG THE BEACHES TO DRIVE THE WATER FURTHER UP.

From the Hillsboro Argus - Icy conditions on Tualatin Valley Roads

Icy conditions on Tualatin Valley roads
By Nick Christensen, The Hillsboro Argus
December 28, 2009, 11:52AM
Icy roads across the Tualatin Valley are being blamed as several crashes are keeping police busy this morning.


While the temperature at Hillsboro Airport has been above freezing since 10 a.m., several roads remain slick after a late night rain shower in the Tualatin Valley was followed by several hours of sub-freezing temperatures. The low at Hillsboro Airport was 26 degrees last night.

Weather update

A Pacific storm will bring rain and mountain snow to the Pacific Northwest from Washington to Northern California today. Snow showers are forecast from the Northern Rockies southward to New Mexico. Scattered rain showers will be prevalent up and down the western U.S. with precipitation extending as far south as central California by Wednesday evening. Five to eight inches of snow is possible across the Sacramento Mountains in southern New Mexico. Highs will be seasonally cool from the 20s and 30s across the Intermountain West to the 50s and 60s in the Southwest.

News Release from: Oregon State Police

This news release from the Oregon State Police reminds us to be very careful during holidays and bad weather. One very bad thing to do is to pass other cars in slush and snow - you might be able to go faster but by passing them, you make them blind as all the snow and slush flies up on their windows. Be patient!!


Posted: December 28th, 2009 10:20 AM
(Note: This reported fatality statistic may change if other information is reported later by Oregon law enforcement agencies. This year's Christmas Holiday reporting period started 6:00 p.m., December 23, and concluded at 11:59 p.m., December 27. This is the confirmed reported number at this time for the 102-hour holiday period.)
***
Five people were killed in 5 separate fatal traffic crashes on Oregon roads during the second of three December special enforcement periods for law enforcement agencies nationwide. Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers also reported an increase in DUII arrests during this holiday period as part of the nationwide crackdown on impaired driving, "Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest." that started December 16th and runs through the New Year's weekend.
In the past decade in Oregon, more than 2,000 individuals were killed and over 26,000 people injured by drinking and drugged drivers. Nationally in 2008, 11,773 people died in highway crashes involving a driver or motorcycle rider with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher.
Preliminary information provided by ODOT's Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) indicates 5 people died on Oregon roads during the 102-hour period Christmas Holiday period. Between 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 23, and 11:59 p.m., Sunday, December 27, the following confirmed fatal crashes were reported:
* On December 24, 2009 at approximately 9:45 a.m. a 48-year old Bakersfield, California man died in a single vehicle crash on Highway 42 near milepost 43 in Coos County. Icy road conditions were a contributing factor. Oregon State Police (OSP) is the lead investigating agency.
* On December 24, 2009 at approximately 10:30 a.m. a 52-year old Salem man died in a two-vehicle crash on Highway 22 near milepost 76. Icy road conditions were a contributing factor. OSP is the lead investigating agency.
* On December 26, 2009 at approximately 9:36 a.m. a 74-year old Coos Bay woman died in a three-vehicle crash on Highway 42 near milepost 43 in Coos County. This was the second fatal traffic crash in this area over the holiday period. Icy road conditions were a contributing factor. OSP in the lead investigating agency.
* On December 26, 2009 at approximately 10:20 a.m. a 81-year old Lebanon man was critically injured when his vehicle struck a fallen tree on Highway 211 south of Estacada. The man died the next morning from his injuries. OSP is the lead investigating agency.
* On December 26, 2009 at approximately 5:57 p.m. an adult male died after he was struck by a vehicle trying to cross Bend Parkway near Badger Road. Bend Police Department is the lead investigating agency.
During last year's Christmas Holiday period, six people were killed in 6 separate fatal traffic crashes. According to FARS, during the last ten years an average of four people died each year over this holiday period.
OSP troopers arrested 60 DUII drivers, up from 50 reported DUII arrests during the 2008 Christmas Holiday period. OSP offices reporting 3 or more DUII arrests were:
* Salem Area Command – 8 DUII arrests
* Portland Area Command – 7 DUII arrests
* Grants Pass Work Site – 6 DUII arrests
* Coos Bay Area Command – 6 DUII arrests
* Klamath Falls Area Command – 4 DUII arrests
* Central Point Area Command – 3 DUII arrests
OSP troopers also reported responding to over 150 traffic crashes and assisted nearly 300 disabled motorists.
Arrest statistics for county and city agencies were not available. Any questions related to their statistics should be directed to those respective agencies.
State, county and city law enforcement agencies are planning enhanced enforcement efforts during the New Year's Holiday period (6:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 30th, through 11:59 p.m., Sunday, January 3rd, 2010). During last year's 102-hour New Year's holiday period, seven people were killed in 5 separate Oregon traffic crashes. According to FARS statistics, during the last ten years over this holiday period an average of more than 5 traffic deaths have occurred. OSP troopers reported more than 50 DUII arrests over last year's New Year's holiday period.
OSP, OSSA, OACP and ODOT urge holiday travelers to remember these tips:
* Remember cooler temperatures are leading to icy roadway conditions in many areas. Expect the unexpected and be alert for quick changes in road conditions, especially watching for ice on bridges and in shaded areas.
* Don't drink and drive ("Buzzed driving is drunk driving"), and don't ride with anyone who has had too much to drink.
* Never use illegal drugs.
* Volunteer to be a designated driver.
* If someone who's been drinking insists on driving, take his/her keys.
* If hosting a gathering, provide non-alcoholic beverages.
* Use public transit or local drive-home services provided by taxis and other companies.
* Always use safety restraints.
* Avoid travel after midnight, especially on weekends or holidays.
* Drive alert and defensively at all times.
* Report any suspected impaired driving by calling 1-800-24DRUNK (800-243-7865) or 9-1-1.
### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###
　
Contact Info: Lieutenant Gregg Hastings
Public Information Officer
Office: (503) 731-3020 ext. 247
Pager: (503) 323-3195

Important links for holiday travel

Portland airport: www.flypdx.com
PDX airport parking
ODOT Tripcheck
www.amtrak.com
www.greyhound.com
Sea-Tac Airport
WSDOT
Arrivals, departures and delays

FRIENDLYREMINDER: PURCHASE, POSSESS AND DISPLAY SNO-PARK PERMITS IN OREGON'S DESIGNATED WINTER RECREATION PARKING AREAS

News Release from: Oregon State Police Posted: December 21st, 2009 3:12 http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2009-12/1002/Sno_Park_Permit_80x80.jpg


Purchase, Possess and Display. Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) and Oregon State Police (OSP) offer that friendly reminder to those who will be traveling to and parking in Oregon's winter recreation areas.

Between November 1 and April 30, Sno-Park permits are required to be displayed in the windshield of vehicles parked in designated winter recreation areas. Revenue from Sno-Park permits pays for snow removal in these areas.

In cooperation with ODOT, OSP troopers will be working overtime enforcement in designated winter recreation areas around the state. Nearly two months into the winter period when permits are required, enforcement efforts last weekend indicate many people have not purchased Sno-Park permits. On Saturday, December 18th, two OSP troopers cited over 250 vehicles for violation of the Sno-Park permit law in the Mt. Hood area. Each citation for parking in a designated area without a permit may result in a $30 fine.

Three types of Sno-Park permits are available for purchase:
* Annual - $20*
3-Day (consecutive) - $7*
Daily - $3

Sno-Park permits are sold at all DMV offices and by permit agents in resorts, sporting goods stores, and other retail outlets. Agents are allowed to charge an additional service fee for each permit they sell.

More information about Sno-Park parking permits, including a link to a map of Oregon Sno-Parks, is available on ODOT's website at:
http://www.oregon.gov/ODOT/DMV/vehicle/sno_park_permits.shtml .
### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

Eastern Storm Affects Western Air Travel

PORTLAND, Ore. - As a massive snowstorm slammed the East Coast, shutting down roads and closing airports, the ripple effects hit Portland.

For article go to: http://www.koinlocal6.com/content/news/topstories/story/Eastern-Storm-Affects-Western-Air-Travel/vvuj7jqgn0O_6_IxipgYFA.cspx?rss=1100

FEMA Encourages Winter Weather Preparedness

Release Date: December 18, 2009
Release Number: HQ-09-156

» 2009 Region III News Releases


WASHINGTON, D.C. – With the winter season approaching, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) reminds individuals to be prepared for winter storms and extreme cold. While the danger of severe winter weather varies across the country, everyone can benefit by taking a few easy steps now to prepare for emergencies. A first step, regardless of where you live, is to visit the Ready.gov Web site to find preparedness ideas you can use all year long.

"Severe winter weather can strike at any time. Even areas that normally experience mild winters can be hit with a major snowstorm or extreme cold," said FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate. “I encourage everyone to get an emergency supply kit, develop and practice a family emergency plan and stay informed about emergencies that may affect your area. Families can log onto Ready.gov to learn more.”

Severe winter weather can include snow or subfreezing temperatures, strong winds and ice or heavy rain storms. An emergency supply kit both at home and in the car will help prepare you and your family for winter power outages and icy or impassable roads.

Both kits should include a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, extra flashlights and batteries. In addition, your home kit should include a three day supply of food and water. Thoroughly check and update your family’s emergency supply kit and add the following supplies in preparation for winter weather:

•Rock salt to melt ice on walkways,
•Sand to improve traction on driveways and sidewalks,
•Snow shovels and other snow removal equipment,
•And adequate clothing and blankets to help keep you warm.
Ensure your family preparedness plan and contacts are up to date and exercise your plan. Learn about emergency plans established in your area by state and local officials and make sure your family plans and contacts are up to date.

Finally, make sure to familiarize yourself with the terms that are used to identify a winter storm hazard and discuss with your family what to do if a winter storm watch or warning is issued. Terms used to describe a winter storm hazard include the following:

•Freezing Rain creates a coating of ice on roads and walkways.
•Sleet is rain that turns to ice pellets before reaching the ground. Sleet also causes roads to freeze and become slippery.
•Winter Weather Advisory means cold, ice and snow are expected.
•Winter Storm Watch means severe weather such as heavy snow or ice is possible in the next day or two.
•Winter Storm Warning means severe winter conditions have begun or will begin very soon.
For more information and winter preparedness tips, please visit: http://www.ready.gov/winter

FEMA Encourages Individuals To "Resolve To Be Ready"

Release Date: December 17, 2009
Release Number: HQ-09-155

WASHINGTON - With the New Year approaching, the Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Ready Campaign is reminding Americans to Resolve to be Ready in 2010. Resolve to be Ready is an annual initiative encouraging individuals, families, businesses and communities to make preparedness a part of their New Year resolutions.

“This holiday season, as family and friends come together to celebrate, it is also a great time to talk about the importance of being prepared,” said Administrator Fugate. “Families can start small, by ensuring they have a communications plan in place before an emergency happens, a little bit of planning can make all the difference in an emergency. The public is the most critical member of our national emergency response team, and the more they do now to be prepared, the better our response.”

Being Ready for emergencies can be an easy New Year's resolution to keep by following the Ready Campaign's three simple steps: 1) Get an emergency supply kit; 2) Make a family emergency plan; and 3) Be informed about the types of emergencies and appropriate responses.

Taking these steps and having an emergency supply kit both at home and in the car, will help prepare people for winter power outages and icy roads. Each of these kits should include basic necessities such as water, food and first aid supplies to help you survive if you are without power or become stranded in your vehicle. Complete checklists for each kit are available at www.ready.gov.

In addition, by visiting www.ready.gov or the Spanish-language Web site www.listo.gov, or calling 1-800-BE-READY or 1-888-SE-LISTO, individuals can access free materials that will help them make and keep a New Year's resolution that will bring their families peace of mind. The Ready campaign has been produced in partnership with the Ad Council.

FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.

Stay informed of FEMA’s activities online: videos and podcasts available at www.fema.gov/medialibrary and www.youtube.com/fema; follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/femainfocus and on FaceBook at www.facebook.com/fema .

Small amount of H1N1 influenza vaccine for children under three voluntarily recalled

Small amount of H1N1 influenza vaccine for children under three voluntarily recalled
There are no vaccine safety concerns and kids don’t need to be revaccinated

Vaccine manufacturer Sanofi Pasteur has voluntarily recalled a small amount of H1N1 vaccine intended for use in children under 3. No safety issues with the vaccine have been identified. Routine testing revealed that this batch of vaccine has become slightly less potent over time. Despite this, children who received this vaccine are still protected from H1N1 flu, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention officials.

“Children who have already received the recalled vaccine don’t need to be revaccinated. Parents just need to make sure that their kids 9 and younger receive two doses of H1N1 vaccine at least 21 days apart,” said Gary Oxman, Multnomah County Health Officer.

This recalled product represents a very small percentage of the total amount of vaccine received in Washington and Oregon. Washington received 5,100 doses of the recalled vaccine, a tiny fraction of the 1.6 millions doses of H1N1 vaccine the state has received to date. In Oregon, these figures are 7,600 and 1,066,450 respectively.

Any health care providers who have the recalled vaccine should stop using it, keep it refrigerated, and wait for instructions on how to return it.

More information about the recalled vaccine is available at http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/vaccination/syringes_qa.htm. Additional vaccine information, as well as tips on how schools, businesses, and others can avoid getting sick is available at www.nwflunews.info or www.flunewsswwashington.org.

H1N1 vaccine is now available for everyone in Oregon and Southwest Washington and everyone is encouraged to get vaccinated.

High Surf Advisory

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE PORTLAND OR
201 PM PST WED DEC 16 2009
ORZ001-002-170615-
/O.CON.KPQR.SU.Y.0011.091217T0200Z-091217T2000Z/
NORTH OREGON COAST-CENTRAL OREGON COAST-
201 PM PST WED DEC 16 2009
...HIGH SURF ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM THIS EVENING TO
NOON PST THURSDAY...
A HIGH SURF ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM THIS EVENING TO
NOON PST THURSDAY.
A STRONG STORM SYSTEM MOVING INTO BRITISH COLUMBIA TODAY IS
PUSHING A VIGOROUS FRONTAL SYSTEM ONSHORE INTO WASHINGTON AND
OREGON THIS AFTERNOON. STRONG WINDS ASSOCIATED WITH THE STORM AND
FRONTAL SYSTEM ARE CAUSING A SIGNIFICANT SWELL TO DEVELOP
OFFSHORE...WHICH IS BEGINNING TO IMPACT THE COAST THIS AFTERNOON
AND WILL CONTINUE TO DO SO THROUGH THURSDAY MORNING.
WEST TO SOUTHWEST SWELL OF 15 FEET IS ALREADY BEING REPORTED BY
THE COASTAL BUOYS THIS AFTERNOON. THIS SWELL WILL BUILD TO 17 TO
19 FEET OVERNIGHT TONIGHT...AND IS EXPECTED TO REMAIN 17 TO 19
FEET THROUGH THURSDAY MORNING. THE LARGE SWELL WILL CAUSE HAZARDOUS
CONDITIONS IN AND NEAR THE SURF ZONE...SO BEACHGOERS SHOULD USE
EXTREME CAUTION IF VENTURING NEAR THE WATER. THE SWELL IS EXPECTED
TO GRADUALLY SUBSIDE THURSDAY AFTERNOON.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
A HIGH SURF ADVISORY MEANS THAT HIGH SURF WILL AFFECT BEACHES IN
THE ADVISORY AREA...PRODUCING RIP CURRENTS AND LOCALIZED BEACH
EROSION.
IT CAN BE VERY DANGEROUS TO VENTURE NEAR THE COAST UNDER HIGH
SURF CONDITIONS. PEOPLE AT TIMES ARE SWEPT OFF ROCKS AND JETTIES
AND DROWN WHILE OBSERVING HIGH SURF. STAY WELL BACK FROM THE
WATERS EDGE AND BE ALERT FOR THE EXCEPTIONALLY HIGH WAVE

First winter storm slams region

By Larry MeyerArgus Observer
For entire article use link


http://www.argusobserver.com/articles/2009/12/16/news/doc4b2926a5dd43b743268467.prt


WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 16, 2009 Last modified: Wednesday, December 16, 2009 10:44 AM PST
Trucks line up along Interstate 84, from the North Ontario Interchange to the west, Tuesday, as drivers prepare for the drive over snowy hills, possibly waiting for the freeway close farther north.


ONTARIO -During the last few days, Chris Rasmussen has learned to live with ice and snow.The Omaha, Neb., trucker was at Love’s Truck Stop Tuesday, thumping through some videos — once again waiting.
He’s done a lot of waiting lately.Rasmussen said he had only made it from Caldwell yesterday morning and faced a gauntlet of ice and snow across Wyoming and Utah.

Oregon State Police cracking down during Holidays

Law enforcement leaders in Oregon announced today they will be joining with thousands of other law enforcement and highway agencies across the nation during the upcoming national crackdown on impaired driving,December 16 to January 3, 2010.

Drunk driving is one of America's deadliest crimes. In 2008, 11,773 peopledied in highway crashes involving a driver or motorcycle rider with ablood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher. The picture for womenis particularly concerning. Twenty-one percent of the 5,473 female driverskilled in crashes in 2008 had BAC levels of .08 or higher.

In the past decade in Oregon, more than 2,000 individuals were killed andover 26,000 people were injured by drinking and drugged drivers."By working together toward a common goal of reducing the incidents ofdrinking and drugged driving, we will enjoy a safer roadway system,"Governor Ted Kulongoski wrote in proclaiming December as Drunk and Drugged Driving Awareness month.

"Our message is simple so there should be no excuses or exceptions: if you drive impaired you will be arrested," said Oregon State Police (OSP)Superintendent Timothy McLain."Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest." is the name of the national crackdown on impaired driving. It is a deterrence program organized bythe U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic SafetyAdministration (NHTSA) that focuses on combining high-visibilityenforcement with heightened public awareness through advertising andpublicity.

"Driving with a BAC of .08 or higher is illegal in every state. Yet wecontinue to see far too many people suffer debilitating injuries and lossof their loved ones as a result of someone else's poor decision to drivewhile impaired. This careless disregard for human life must stop," saidTillamook County Sheriff Todd Anderson, President of the Oregon StateSheriff's Association (OSSA)."Drunk driving is simply not worth the risk. Not only do you risk killing yourself or someone else, but the trauma and financial costs of a crash oran arrest for impaired driving can be significant," said City of TheDalles Police Chief Jay Waterbury, who is also President of the OregonAssociation of Chiefs of Police (OACP). "Violators often face jail time,the loss of their driver's license, higher insurance rates, attorney fees,time away from work, and dozens of other expenses. So don't take thechance.

Remember, if you are over the limit, you are under arrest."Three important enforcement periods fall within the 19 day crackdownperiod:* "National Holiday Lifesaver Weekend" (12:01 a.m., Friday, December 18th,through 11:59 p.m., Sunday, December 20th). a public awareness effortconducted since 1991 the weekend preceding Christmas.* Christmas Holiday period (6:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 23rd, through11:59 p.m., Sunday, December 27th). During last years 102-hour Christmasholiday period, six people were killed in 6 separate Oregon traffic crashes. According to ODOT's Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS)statistics, during the last ten years over this holiday period an averageof 4 traffic deaths have occurred. OSP troopers arrested 50 DUII driversover the 2008 holiday period.

* New Year's Holiday period (6:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 30th, through11:59 p.m., Sunday, January 3rd, 2010). During last year's 102-hour NewYear's holiday period, seven people were killed in 5 separate Oregontraffic crashes. According to FARS statistics, during the last ten yearsover this holiday period an average of more than 5 traffic deaths haveoccurred. OSP troopers reported more than 50 DUII arrests over last year'sNew Year's holiday period.OSP, OSSA, OACP and ODOT urge holiday travelers to remember these tips:

* Don't drink and drive ("Buzzed driving is drunk driving"), and don'tride with anyone who has had too much to drink
.* Never use illegal drugs.* Volunteer to be a designated driver.
* If someone who's been drinking insists on driving, take his/her keys.
* If hosting a gathering, provide non-alcoholic beverages.
* Use public transit or local drive-home services provided by taxis andother companies.* Always use safety restraints.
* Avoid travel after midnight, especially on weekends or holidays.
* Drive defensively at all times.
* Report any suspected impaired driving by calling 1-800-24DRUNK(800-243-7865) or 9-1-

1.While traveling this holiday season, and every day of the year, look foremergency responders working along our roads. Remember Oregon's "MoveOver Law" has an important change effective January 1, 2010 that addsroadside assistance vehicles and tow vehicles to the list requiringmotorists to "maintain a safe distance". Motorists will be required to:

* Make a lane change to a lane not adjacent to that of an emergency vehicle, roadside assistance vehicle, tow vehicle or ambulance; or
* Reduce the speed of the motor vehicle to a speed that is at least 5miles per hour under the posted speed limit, if making a lane change is unsafe.

In addition to travel challenges faced with impaired drivers on our roads,travelers will also need to pay attention for unexpected changes withwinter-related road conditions. The "Oregon Winter Driving Guide",developed by the Governor's Transportation/Tourism Task Force, is ahelpful resource for motorists with information on Oregon's laws thatgovern use of tire chains, tips for driving in icy or snowy conditions,and a checklist of equipment for roadside emergencies.

The free guide is available at visitor information centers and conventionbureaus, welcome centers and information kiosks, Les Schwab Tire Centers,Department of Transportation offices, and from members of the OregonLodging Association. The guide is also available online at tripcheck.com,traveloregon.com, oregontic.com, and oregonlodging.com. A link is also available on the Oregon State Police web site.

For more information, visit www.Stopimpaireddriving.org.

Traffic conditions

ODOT/Eastern Oregon: I-84 closed La Grande to Arlington (east andwestbound) due to icy condition and truck crashes. All major routes inUmatilla Co. closed (I-82, OR Hwy. 11, US 730). Closures are due totrucks blocking and extremely ice condition. Roadblocks are not manned at all hwys at this time. Severe icy conditions. ODOT advised alltravelers to stay home.

H1N1 Vacine Message from the Oregon Public Health Division

Pandemic Communications
Message 7 – H1N1 Update


As of Dec. 11, 2009, 1274 confirmed hospitalizations and 63 deaths have occurred in Oregon, due to H1N1 flu. The Oregon Public Health Division continues to respond to the pandemic and provide leadership and resources for all Oregonians. Here’s what’s new.

Resources
Oregon’s flu hotline now has nurses available to give advice on exposure to the flu, prevention, symptoms, and deciding when to see a doctor. Please keep the number handy and share it with family, friends and clients. The number to call is 1-800-978-3040.

The Oregon Public Health Division recently updated its flu Web site with new posters that promote flu-free work environments. Feel free to post these materials in the common areas of your work unit. The posters appear in English and Spanish. Look for “flu-free” under the Employer Resources section of the following page: http://flu.oregon.gov/Pages/BusinessesandEmployers.aspx.

Vaccine Update
On Monday, Dec. 14, Oregon Public Health officials expanded the availability of the H1N1 vaccine to everyone. Dr. Mel Kohn, director of Oregon Public Health Division, recommends that everyone get vaccinated, especially people who may be at high risk for complications during the flu.

Cases of H1N1 flu have dropped off over the last few weeks, but there is a good possibility that additional waves of illness may occur over the next few months. Health officials continue to urge people to get vaccinated to prevent problems later this winter. Private healthcare providers, retail pharmacies and local public health clinics will receive the vaccine.

You can find public clinic locations for H1N1 vaccine at the following Web site or by calling the flu hotline, 1-800-978-3040: http://flu.oregon.gov/pages/vaccinelocations.aspx.

Flash Alert from ODOT: OR 58 Open to One Lane

ODOT/Willamette Valley, No. Coast: OR 58 is now open to one lane of travel at mile post 38, near Oakridge after an earlier crash. I-5 is now open at mile post 173, south of Cottage Grove after an earlier crash.

For more information, contact:
Rick Little, ODOT PIO, 541-505-2069
TripCheck.com, 5-1-1, 800-977-6368

Flash Alert from ODOT: More wrecks due to freezing rain

ODOT/Willamette Valley: Crashes have restricted travel at several locations in Lane County as a mix of rain and freezing rain continues to fall.

Currently, there is a crash at I-5 northbound at mile post 174 near Cottage Grove.
Hwy 99S at River Road near Cottage Grove is closed due to a crash.

Hwy 99 at Airport Road north of Eugene is restricted to one lane of travel due to a crash.

Freezing rain continues to fall in various areas while some areas are now receiving rain. Forecasts call for freezing rain through the night. If you have to travel, be prepared for extreme winter road conditions.

For more information, contact:
Rick Little, ODOT PIO, 541-505-2069
TripCheck.com, 5-1-1, 800-977-6368

Interesting weather article from Portland Tribune

http://www.theoutlookonline.com/news/story.php?story_id=126055663333184700

First bone-chilling cold, now snow and ice?
Willamette Valley weather could turn nasty Friday night and Saturday
By Jim Redden

The Portland Tribune, Dec 11, 2009, Updated 1.9 hours ago
Tribune File Photo / L.E. Baskow

Remember this? In late December 2008, a couple made their way along a snow-lined street in Eastmoreland. The Portland area could be in line for another winter blast this weekend — probably not as bad as last year.
With snow and freezing rain predicted during the weekend, city officials are warning Portlanders to watch out for unexpected dangers - for entire article, click link above

Updated weather

This afternoon/evening, Dec 11, Friday, it will , begin with snow and transition to freezing rain and rain by late Saturday and Sunday as it moves north. The main impacted areas are the Willamette Valley areas and the Gorge. The coast from south to north from today thru Sunday will experience freezing rain to snow. Coast range could get up to 8 inches on the east slopes. Storm should start to hit the Central Willamette Valley around 10 pm today, transition from snow to freezing rain and to rain by Sunday. The gorge could get 3-10 inches for snow with a transition to freezing rain by Saturday afternoon. Next week should have higher temperatures and rain. There is still some uncertainty with the amounts and types of precipitation.

Warming shelters closed after power restored

Originally printed at http://www.kpic.com/news/78890142.html

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ore. -- Power has been restored to the Green/Winston area.

The American Red Cross - Oregon Pacific Chapter had opened two warming shelters for residents without power or water, but they are now closed.

Besides the power outage around the Winston/Green area, some Winston residents were also without water due to the freezing conditions. Winston Water District officials told us that everything is working OK as far as the city water lines go, but there are reports of some residents with frozen water pipes.

The Red Cross says that they are unable to provide assistance to individuals who have experienced frozen pipes or flooding due to burst pipes.

For residents with these challenges, they say to contact your home-owners insurance agent, landlord, or necessary repair companies for assistance.

Red Cross said in a press release that they appreciates the quick response of Green Elementary School and the Foursquare Gospel Church in Winston, in helping provide warm and comfortable settings for Douglas County residents affected by today's power outages.

The shelters were free and open to all individuals, and were set up at the Green Elementary School Annex, 4498 SW Carnes Rd, Roseburg, and at Foursquare Gospel Church, 540 SE Main St, Winston.

ICED OVER Cold knocks out power to 3,000 area households

By Hillary Borrud / The Bulletin
Published: December 09. 2009 4:00AM PST advertisement:
Find out more
For updated information about the power outage and emergency services, call the Deschutes County emergency information line at 541-550-4888.

RELATED
Articles
Central Oregonians warned to watch out for ice dams

The power will likely still be out for some households in the Sisters, Black Butte and Camp Sherman areas this morning, more than 24 hours after an outage hit 3,000 households began due to an equipment failure related to the cold weather.

Central Electric Cooperative also anticipated scattered, unrelated outages overnight, and crews planned to work through the night, according to a news release sent out late Tuesday.

Utility and contract crews had restored power by 6 p.m. Tuesday to about 70 percent of the 3,000 households from north Bend west to Black Butte Ranch and Camp Sherman that lost power during the outage that began early Tuesday morning.

Cold weather was a factor in the equipment failure that caused the outage, with subzero temperatures in Sisters overnight Monday and a high temperature of 12 degrees Tuesday. The temperature was forecast to dip back to 6 degrees below zero Tuesday night in Sisters.

The National Weather Service forecast continued cold temperatures through the weekend in Bend, with a high temperature barely topping freezing on Sunday, according to the service's Web site.

The problem began at about 2:30 a.m. when a connector stopped working, said Alan Guggenheim, CEC member services director. “Extreme cold weather caused it to fail,” he said.

The failure had a cascading effect, knocking out a 69,000-volt power transmission line near the Tollgate substation northwest of Sisters.

Some customers experienced power surges when electricity began flowing, causing it to fluctuate or go out again. Guggenheim suggested customers with power still out should turn off major appliances at the circuit breaker, or in the case of a furnace, dial down the thermostat, but leave on some lights, so they will know when power is restored.

When power returns, he said, customers should wait 15-20 minutes to turn on the appliances and the furnace, to ensure they get an even flow of electricity.

Few residents using shelter


As of Tuesday evening, CEC was working with Deschutes County Emergency Services, as well as the sheriff's offices in Deschutes and Jefferson counties.

Deschutes County Search and Rescue team members went from house to house in the Black Butte Ranch and Camp Sherman areas Tuesday to check on residents and visited the homes of 30 people with health conditions to see if they needed help, according to a Deschutes County news release.

Members of the Central Oregon Council on Aging also coordinated several groups to identify and contact vulnerable residents who might have needed help.

The Oregon Mountain River Chapter of the American Red Cross established a shelter at Sisters Elementary, 611 E. Cascade Ave., for residents who could not comfortably stay in their homes, but only one person had sought shelter there by 5 p.m. Tuesday, said Deschutes County spokeswoman Anna Johnson.

“We're going to put him in a hotel, because it's not reasonable to keep it open for one person,” she said.

Guggenheim recommended that those seeking shelter in other locations, such as a motel, check in with emergency officials at the school, in case relatives call to check on residents who have left home.

Bulletin reporter Tim Doran contributed to this report.

Hillary Borrud can be reached at 541-617-7829 or at hborrud@bendbulletin.com.

Warming Center to Open in Salem

Red Cross responds to need for emergency sheltering of vulnerable

Salem, OR December 9, 2009 — Volunteers with the Willamette Chapter of the American Red Cross are opening a Warming Center in Salem tonight to help shelter people from the cold weather. The site for the Warming Center will be at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Hall located at 630 Hood St NE in Salem. Hours of operation will be 9:00 pm to 7:00 am tonight and 7:00 pm to 7:00 am on Thursday and Friday. Weekend hours to be determined based on need.

People who need to stay at the Center will be offered warm beverages and bread each evening and breakfast each morning. Cots and blankets along with basic hygiene items will also be available.

Dogs and cats will be accepted with their owners, however must be crated (provided at shelter) for the duration of their stay, with the exception of exercise breaks outside the Center. Limited food and water for the pets will be provided.

Public calls about the Center may be made to the Red Cross Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. After hours calls should be made to 503-881-2874. Media inquires should be made to Margaret A. Sanner at 503-508-0688.

EMERGENCY WARMING CENTERS WILL BE OPEN THIS WEEKENDPORTLAND, Ore.

For the third year, the Oregon Trail Chapter of the American Red Cross will open emergency warming centers for Portland's homeless community when severe weather strikes.EMERGENCY WARMING CENTERS OPEN THIS WEEKEND:
.
Sunday, Dec. 6
9 p.m. to 7 a.m.
Portland Foursquare Church
1303 SE AnkenyThe Red Cross anticipates being activated about 15 times this winter and serving up to 300 people each night.What Makes Warming Centers Different:Red Cross emergency warming centers differ from other homeless shelters in several ways:
Singles, couples and families are all welcome.

Guests can come and go as they please throughout the night.

Pets are welcome as long as there is a kennel available. While the centers will provide mats and blankets for guests, as well as hot drinks they differ from traditional Red Cross shelters in that beds, food, clothing and financial support will not be available.

Activation Requirements:The City of Portland will alert the Oregon Trail Chapter when they have confirmed that weather conditions meet the requirements of emergency warming center activation.

Notification should occur by 2 p.m. on the day in question.Under DRY conditions:
A single night at 22 degrees Fahrenheit or below
Three consecutive nights at 25 degrees Fahrenheit or below
32 degrees Fahrenheit or below and sustained wind of 15 mphUnder WET conditions:
32 degrees Fahrenheit or below, with 1 inch forecast accumulation of precipitation
32 degrees Fahrenheit or below, with sustained winds of 15 mph
1 inch of snow on the ground over most of PortlandWarming Center Locations:When activated, emergency warming centers MAY be located at:
Lents Seventh-Day Adventist Church, 8835 SE Woodstock Blvd
Portland Foursquare Church, 1303 SE AnkenyExpected hours of operation will be 9 p.m. to 7 a.m.More Information:To find out if the Red Cross emergency warming centers are operating:

Call 211Info (2-1-1 from a land line or 503-222-5555)
Call the Red Cross Info Line at 503-528-5990

Visit www.oregonredcross.orgTo volunteer, visit www.oregonredcross.org/EWCvolunteer. Orientations are currently scheduled for:Tuesday, Dec. 84-6 p.m.Oregon Trail Chapter3131 N. Vancouver Ave.

Preparedness Gift Ideas from FEMA

SEATTLE, Wash. -- Each and every year millions of American lives are disrupted by natural disasters ranging from earthquakes and tsunamis to floods and wildfire. But all disasters—large or small—share a common attribute: they focus attention on the importance of disaster preparedness and the critical need to take action before disaster strikes. The trick is to convert good intentions into good deeds, and according to Acting FEMA Regional Administrator Dennis Hunsinger, there's no time like the holidays.

"Disaster-ready gifts can save lives, and are a wonderful way of welcoming in 2010," said Hunsinger. "Helping to better prepare neighbors, friends and loved ones for emergencies is a great way to say 'I care.'"

Emergency and preparedness items that might make great gifts this Holiday Season include:

NOAA Weather Radios and extra batteries.
Enrollment in a CPR or first-aid class.
Smoke detectors.
Appropriate fire extinguishers (kitchen, garage, car).
Disaster kits for homes, offices and autos (first aid kits, food, water and prescription medications for 72 hours, extra clothing, blankets, flashlights).
Foldable ladders for second-story escape in a fire.
Car kits (emergency flares, shovels, ice scrapers, flashlights and fluorescent distress flags).
Pet Disaster Kits (food, water, leashes, dishes and carrying case or crate).
A camp stove with extra fuel.
The gift of a gardener to cut back combustible vegetation from wildfire-vulnerable homes.
National Flood Insurance.

A wealth of information and preparedness tips is available from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's READY.GOV site at: www.ready.gov and from FEMA at: www.fema.gov.

Stay informed of FEMA's activities online: videos and podcasts available at www.fema.gov/medialibrary and www.youtube.com/fema; follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/femainfocus twitter.com/femaregion10 and on FaceBook at www.facebook.com/fema.

FEMA's mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.

Oregon Emergency Management encourages you to follow us on www.twitter.com/baileyjn

VERY COLD WEATHER WILL CONTINUE THIS WEEK OVER THE PACIFIC

A MODIFIED ARCTIC AIR MASS OVER SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON AND NORTHWEST
OREGON WILL CONTINUE THIS WEEK. DAYTIME HIGH TEMPERATURES ARE NOT
EXPECTED TO RISE ABOVE FREEZING TODAY AND WEDNESDAY IN THE INLAND
VALLEYS...WHILE NIGHTTIME LOWS WILL BE AROUND 10 TO 15 DEGREES
TONIGHT. COASTAL AREAS WILL ALSO BE VERY COLD TONIGHT WITH LOW
TEMPERATURES IN THE UPPER TEENS TO MID 20S...WHILE DAYTIME HIGHS
ARE LIKELY TO REMAIN IN THE 30S THROUGH WEDNESDAY.

A SLOW WARMING TREND IS EXPECTED THURSDAY AND FRIDAY BUT CONDITIONS WILL REMAIN
COLDER THAN NORMAL.

RESIDUAL NORTHEAST WINDS WILL CONTINUE TO DECREASE IN MOST AREAS TODAY. HOWEVER...SOME EAST WINDS ARE LIKELY AT TIMES IN THE WESTERN COLUMBIA GORGE THROUGH MUCH OF THE WEEK.

MODEL GUIDANCE CONTINUES TO INDICATE A TRANSITION OUT OF THE
ARCTIC AIR MASS THIS WEEKEND. THE INITIAL SYSTEM IS EXPECTED
AROUND FRIDAY NIGHT...WHICH MAY BRING SOME FREEZING RAIN TO THE
INTERIOR LOWLANDS FRIDAY NIGHT INTO SATURDAY MORNING.

Prepare Now For Winter Storms - from the Red Cross

PORTLAND, Ore. – Oregon is prone to winter storms, and the Oregon Trail Chapter of the American Red Cross urges residents to take steps now to stay safer when severe weather threatens.


"By preparing together for winter storms, we can make our families safer and our communities stronger," Eric Corliss, Director of Emergency Services said. "We can help you and your family create a disaster preparedness plan now, before our communities are threatened by dangerously low temperatures, snow, ice and strong winds."


As with any disaster, preparation can be the difference between life and death. The Red Cross recommends that individuals and families prepare for winter storms by:

Assembling an Emergency Preparedness Kit:

Pack a winter-specific supply kit that includes a warm coat, hat, mittens or gloves, and water-resistant boots, along with extra blankets and extra warm clothing. Sand or non-clumping kitty litter is good to have on hand to help make walkways or steps less slippery. Additionally, make sure you have a first aid kit and essential medications, canned food and can opener, bottled water, flashlights and a battery-powered radio with extra batteries in your home in the event of a power outage.


Heeding Storm Warnings:

A winter storm WATCH means winter storm conditions are possible within the next 36 to 48 hours. People in a watch area should review their winter storm plans and stay informed about weather conditions via NOAA Weather radio, or local radio or television stations. A winter storm WARNING means that life-threatening, severe winter conditions have begun or will begin within 24 hours. Individuals in a warning area should take precautions immediately.


Preparing Your Home and Car:

Winterize your vehicle and keep the gas tank full, which will help to keep the fuel line from freezing. Make sure your home is properly insulated by installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic from the inside to help keep cold air out. Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected every year. Running water, even at a trickle, helps to prevent pipes from freezing.

For more winter storm safety tips, visit www.oregonredcross.org/winter. A free online preparedness course is also available at www.oregonredcross.org/beredcrossready.

SEVERE WEATHER, PACIFIC NORTHWEST – [STEADY STATE]

A strong surface high pressure system over the interior of western Canada is pushing arctic air into western WA and OR bringing the coldest weather so far this season. The cold dry conditions are expected to continue through much of this week. A Freeze Warning remains in effect until 2300 PST today and a Freeze Watch remains in effect from Tuesday evening through Wednesday morning along the south central Oregon Coast

Weathering the Winter Season - know the terms

Weathering the Winter Season
It’s important to understand the differences behind National Weather Service’s advisories, watches and warnings.

An advisory is a “heads-up” that conditions are likely for dangerous weather. Advisories are issued when weather conditions will cause a significant inconvenience and, if ignored, could lead to hazardous consequences.

A watch is stronger than an advisory. It tells you that hazardous weather is likely in the next 12-48 hours. Watches are issued to give you time to prepare and plan for weather threats. When a watch is issued, it’s prudent to listen to NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards and check the forecast frequently atNOAA’s National Weather Service Web site (http://www.weather.gov/).

A warning means a threat is occurring or is imminent, and you need to take protective action.
Pay close attention to weather forecasts and listen for advisories, watches and warnings like these:
• Winter Weather Advisory – Expect two or more of the following weather conditions: snow,
freezing rain or drizzle, sleet or blowing snow. Be prepared for hazardous driving conditions.
• Winter Storm Watch – In the next 12-48 hours, severe winter weather conditions are favorable for heavy snow, blizzard conditions, freezing rain or sleet.
• Winter Storm Warning – This means that severe weather is imminent or has already begun.
Expect any combination of heavy snow, freezing rain, sleet and strong winds.
• Blizzard Warning – Blizzards are the most dangerous winter storms. A blizzard is heavy snow and strong winds (35 mph or greater) that combine to produce blinding snow with near zero visibility, deep drifts, and a life-threatening wind chill. (http://www.noaa.gov/features/03_protecting/index.html)

Civil War Game - traffic issues

CORVALLIS/EUGENE, Ore. -- Many Duck fans in Eugene won't have to do too much driving because the game is at Autzen. Yet for Beaver fans coming down from Corvallis, the real challenge isn't the game but the drive.

With a sold-out Autzen Stadium, ODOT says they're expecting an extra 12,000-15,000 vehicles on Interstate 5. So, law enforcement agencies like Oregon State Police will patrol the highways that lead to the Civil War. They say the extra traffic means more chances for disaster.

Officials are urging traveling fans to start their trip early, have a designated driver, and know their limits. Yet some veteran Beaver believers have their own secret routes, but they're not telling where they are. Many of the Beaver fans we spoke with say they may head down to Eugene Wednesday and stay at a hotel. Others say they'll spend the night Thursday so they can celebrate.

ODOT wants game day travelers to be aware of a couple roadway changes that will affect traffic:

* Pioneer Parkway exit of Interstate 105 will be closed for an hour after the game to help control Springfield area traffic. A variable message sign will be posted at the exit and in other locations to advise drivers of potential problems or travel changes.
* Construction on the new Willamette River Bridge replacement has led to a closure of the Franklin Boulevard on-ramp to southbound Interstate 5. The detour will be signed but it will affect fans leaving Eugene for points south.

Red Cross gift ideas

A warm blanket and a hot meal after a devastating disaster. A phone card for a soldier to hear the voices of family and friends. Vaccines to protect our world's children. These items make a huge difference, but come with a small price tag. Starting at just $6 for a blanket, you can give a gift that saves the day this holiday season.

www.oregonredcross.org/gifts

The gift you make could give someone shelter after their house has burned down. It could provide a "comfort kit" with robe and toiletries for a wounded warrior. It could even provide survival supplies and clean water for a family after a typhoon or other international disaster.

After you've made your choice, you can select an e-card to send to your loved one. You'll also receive a complimentary print card by mail, which you can personalize with a message about the gift you have given in their honor.

Wreaths wither. Sweaters go out of style. But honoring your loved ones by sending a Red Cross gift in their name is the perfect way to share the meaning of the season…and give someone hope when they need it most.

www.oregonredcross.org/gifts