News release from ODOT. ODOT maintenance crews are on winter schedule, providing around-the-clock coverage in southern Oregon to ensure a quick response to storms. The National Weather Service provided a weather update today, calling for strong winds and snow levels lowering from 5,500-6,000 feet Thursday afternoon to 3,500-4,000 feet Thursday night. Heavy rain will be confined to Curry County, southern Coos County, and far western Josephine County. NWS noted weather impacts could include downed trees and power lines, flooded roads, hazardous driving conditions, and landslides. “Be safe and smart on the roads,” said ODOT District Manager Jerry Marmon. “Check the road and weather conditions before you leave.” Wet roads – You need more stopping distance on wet roads. Watch for hazards and: Maintain additional space between your vehicle and the one ahead; Stay alert for hydroplaning; reducing speed is the best prevention; Avoid distractions while driving. Another way to go – State highway conditions are updated on TripCheck.com and 511. Each incident has a time stamp. Updates are made when conditions change or new information becomes available, so an older time stamp simply means conditions are status quo. “TripCheck has hundreds of cameras installed around Oregon to help you make travel plans,” said Marmon. “Our cameras and weather stations are invaluable for us and the public.” Road conditions and cameras: www.tripcheck.com; 5-1-1. Winter tips: www.oregon.gov/ODOT/COMM/winterdriving.shtml
