Navigating Oregon’s Interstate 84 (I-84) requires careful planning, especially with the ever-changing travel conditions. As a major route through the state, I-84 can be affected by road closures, construction projects, and adverse weather, particularly during the winter months. Staying informed about the latest travel conditions is crucial for a safe and efficient journey. This guide provides up-to-date information and essential tips to help you prepare for your travel on I-84 in Oregon.
Current Road Closures and Alerts Near I-84
It’s important to be aware of any ongoing road closures or alerts that might impact your route on I-84. Here are some current advisories in Oregon that could affect your travel plans:
Stark Street Bridge Closure near Troutdale
The Stark Street Bridge, located 2 miles east of Troutdale MP 3 on HWY 100, is currently closed at the Historic Columbia River Highway. If your route involves this area, you will need to use an alternate route. This closure may affect local traffic flow and potentially increase congestion on nearby I-84 exits, especially for travelers heading to or from Troutdale.
Hall Boulevard Improvements in Tigard (ORE141)
While not directly on I-84, the construction on Oregon Route 141 (ORE141) in Tigard, around MP 5, involves shoulder and bicycle lane closures, along with pedestrian detours. This project, focused on pedestrian and bicycle improvements on Hall Boulevard between SW Locust Street and SW Durham Road, and at the intersection with SW Greenburg Road, may cause minor delays in the Tigard area. If you are traveling on I-84 and plan to exit towards Tigard, be aware of potential local traffic adjustments due to these improvements.
Historic Columbia River Highway Closure near Multnomah Falls
A significant closure is in place on the Historic Columbia River Highway/U.S. 30 between Wahkeena Falls and Multnomah Falls (HWY100, 5 miles West of Ainsworth State Park MP 18). This section is closed to all users until Memorial Day 2025 due to repairs on two 100-year-old elevated roadways (viaducts) providing access to Multnomah Falls.
Impact on I-84 Travelers:
- Eastbound Access to Multnomah Falls: There is no vehicle or bicycle access to Multnomah Falls heading eastbound on the Historic Highway.
- Detour via I-84: To visit Multnomah Falls, use I-84 Exit 31 or consider taking transit. This closure means that I-84 Exit 31 will be the primary access point for vehicles heading to Multnomah Falls from the east, potentially leading to increased traffic at this exit.
- Hiking Trail Open: The Wahkeena-Multnomah Falls return trail #442 remains open for hikers.
This long-term closure is crucial for anyone planning to visit Multnomah Falls and is a prime example of how travel conditions near I-84 can influence your trip.
Weather Alerts and Winter Driving Conditions
Oregon’s weather can change rapidly, especially in mountainous areas near I-84. Be prepared for potential weather-related travel advisories, particularly during the winter months.
Winter Storm Warning: North Blue Mountains and Northwest Blue Mountains
A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for the North Blue Mountains of Oregon and the Northwest Blue Mountains of Washington. Heavy snow is expected, with additional accumulations of 6 to 12 inches between 3500 to 4500 feet, and 12 to 24 inches above 4500 feet. This warning is in place until 4 PM PST Monday.
Impact on I-84 Travelers: The Blue Mountains region intersects with I-84 in eastern Oregon. Heavy snowfall and low visibility in this area will create extremely dangerous driving conditions on I-84, particularly through mountain passes.
Winter Storm Warning: East Slopes of the Cascades
The East slopes of the Oregon Cascades are also under a Winter Storm Warning until 4 PM PST Monday. Heavy snow is expected above 4000 feet along the Cascade crest, with accumulations of 8 to 24 inches.
Impact on I-84 Travelers: While the Cascades are west of I-84, this weather system can still affect travel conditions on I-84, especially in areas approaching the Cascade foothills or passes that connect to the Cascade region. Expect potentially challenging driving conditions and be prepared for delays.
Winter Weather Advisory: South Blue Mountains and Ochoco-John Day Highlands
Winter Weather Advisories are in place for the South Blue Mountains and Ochoco-John Day Highlands until 4 PM PST Monday. In the South Blue Mountains, expect total snow accumulations of 2 to 6 inches between 4000 and 4500 feet and 4 to 9 inches between 4500 and 5500 feet. The Ochoco-John Day highlands are expecting 1 to 4 inches between 4000 and 4500 feet and 2 to 6 inches above 4500 feet.
Impact on I-84 Travelers: These regions are also relevant to I-84 travel in eastern Oregon. While advisories are less severe than warnings, they still indicate potentially difficult driving conditions due to snow and reduced visibility.
Winter Storm Warning: South Central Cascades, Siskiyous & South Cascades
A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for the southern Oregon Cascades, including highways 138, 230, 62, and 140. Heavy snow is expected, with total accumulations between 8 to 18 inches, and local amounts up to 25 inches near Crater Lake. Winds gusting up to 40 MPH are also anticipated.
Impact on I-84 Travelers: Although these areas are further south, the extensive winter storm system across Oregon indicates a widespread potential for challenging travel conditions throughout the state, including regions connected to I-84 indirectly or through connecting highways.
Tips for Safe Travel on I-84 in Oregon
Given the potential for road closures and winter weather, safe travel on I-84 in Oregon requires preparation and caution:
- Check TripCheck Before You Go: Always visit TripCheck.com or call 511 for the most up-to-date road conditions, closures, and weather alerts before starting your journey. This is your primary resource for real-time information.
- Carry a Winter Emergency Kit: If traveling during winter, equip your vehicle with a winter storm kit. Include items like tire chains, booster cables, a flashlight, shovel, blankets, extra clothing, water, and a first-aid kit.
- Drive with Extreme Caution in Winter Weather: If you must travel during winter weather advisories or warnings, drive slowly, increase your following distance, use headlights, and be aware of black ice.
- Consider Delaying Travel: When severe weather is predicted or warnings are issued, the safest option is often to delay your travel plans until conditions improve.
- Do Not Detour During Winter Storms: Stick to known routes and avoid detouring onto unfamiliar roads during winter storms, as this can lead to getting stranded in less traveled areas.
By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, you can navigate travel conditions on I-84 in Oregon safely and confidently. Always prioritize safety and adjust your plans based on the latest updates.
