Tue Jan 06 05:50:00 UTC 2026: # Oregon Cascade Mountains Brace for Winter Storm Amidst Snowpack Deficit

The Story:
The National Weather Service in Portland has issued a winter storm warning for Oregon’s Cascade Mountain passes from January 6-8, 2026, predicting heavy snow and high winds. The forecast includes 1 to 2 feet of snow and wind speeds up to 40 mph across key locations like Santiam Pass, Willamette Pass, and the Mount Hood area. While the storm is anticipated to disrupt travel, it is also seen as crucial for bolstering Oregon’s ski areas and winter recreation, which have suffered from a poor start to the season. Long-term forecasts, however, indicate a return to abnormally hot and dry conditions after the storm passes.

Key Points:

  • A winter storm warning is in effect for Oregon’s Cascade Mountain passes from January 6-8, 2026.
  • The forecast predicts 1 to 2 feet of snow and winds up to 40 mph.
  • Affected areas include Santiam Pass (U.S. Highway 20), Willamette Pass (Oregon Highway 58), and the Government Camp and Mount Hood area (Highway 26 and 35).
  • The heaviest snow is expected on the afternoons and evenings of January 6 and January 7.
  • Oregon’s snowpack is currently at only 22-25% of normal for the season.
  • Ski areas need the snowfall to open up more terrain, though long-term forecasts predict a return to dry conditions.

Key Takeaways:

  • Oregon’s Cascade Mountains are expected to receive significant snowfall in early January 2026, offering temporary relief to struggling ski areas.
  • Despite the incoming storm, Oregon’s overall snowpack remains severely depleted, highlighting ongoing concerns about water resources and climate change.
  • The juxtaposition of a short-term winter storm warning with long-term forecasts of hot and dry conditions underscores the unpredictable nature of weather patterns and the potential for continued challenges to winter recreation and water management in the region.

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