For the first time this winter season, chains were required for motorists driving through the Cascades yesterday. The snow was falling heavily, and some of the passes saw more than a foot of fresh snow. So - are you ready?

A shot from Santiam Pass on Sunday afternoon, showing
improving road conditions

Chains will be required more and more frequently as fall and winter storms continue to pound the region. And it's more than just a law - it really is about your safety. Having those chains can get you out of a jam when you really need them, especially if you encounter snow and ice covered roads when you weren't expecting it. There are other options, though. If you'd rather go with studded tires, that'll be open to you soon - studded tires are permitted in Oregon beginning on November 1st.

A great website for checking conditions up in the passes is hosted by the Oregon Department of Transportation. If you click here you'll be redirected to their page, where you can click on traffic cameras all across the region, including one at Government Camp on Highway 26.

Also, for more information on Oregon's chain law, check out this webpage.

Wishing you safe driving this winter,

Joe

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